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The 5785 Agudah Convention
by Dei'ah Vedibur Staff
This past weekend, December 5-8, Shabbos, Parshas VaYeitze, a large crowd gathered in Stamford, Connecticut, for the highly anticipated annual Agudah Convention. Held at the Armon Hotel and Conference Center, the weekend, whose theme was "Emunah: We Are Here Because We Believe," was an incredible opportunity for chizuk, inspiration, growth, and connection to some of the leading voices of our generation. The convention brought together gedolei Torah, rabbonim, and lay leaders, providing a platform for meaningful discussions and fostering a unique sense of achdus.
The zchus of spending Shabbos in the presence of the members of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah of Agudas Yisroel of America, along with other esteemed gedolei Torah, was a truly inspiring and hisorerus-filled experience for those present. The chochmah and piety of the gedolim, and their unwavering commitment to Klal Yisroel, permeated every moment of the weekend, creating an atmosphere of profound ruchniyusdike elevation. To be in their company and to hear their divrei his'orerus was a unique privilege that left an indelible impact on all who attended.
The convention focused heavily on the situation in Eretz Yisroel, specifically addressing the aftermath of last year's devastating attack on Simchas Torah and its impact on acheinu bnei Eretz Yisroel. Feeling the pain of those who have been impacted by the attack and the subsequent war was a focal point of the convention keynote sessions. These discussions were framed within the broader and critical context of emunah and bitachon, as the gedolim and other speakers sought to guide Yidden in navigating these challenging times with steadfast faith and trust in Hashem.
Rav Aryeh Malkiel Kotler
Keynotes Set the Tone
The convention featured impactful keynote addresses that laid the foundation for the weekend.
The Thursday evening keynote session, titled "Anchored in Faith: Strengthening Emunah and Bitachon in Turbulent Times," opened with Tehillim led by Rabbi Shloime Mandel, rosh hayeshiva of Yeshiva of Brooklyn.
The audience was addressed by Rabbi Aryeh Malkiel Kotler, chaver of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and rosh hayeshiva of Beth Medrash Govoha, Rabbi Lipa Geldwerth, rov of Khal Kol Torah, Rabbi Dovid Breslauer, rosh kollel at Yeshiva of South Fallsburg, and Rabbi Aharon Weinberg, maggid shiur at the Nirbater Bais Medrash. They spoke powerfully about the importance of strengthening one's emunah and bitachon during difficult and turbulent times. Their messages resonated deeply, emphasizing that even in the face of hardship, maintaining strong faith is what sustains us as yechidim and as a klal. The session was chaired by Yehuda Zachter, who also served as co-chairman of the convention.
The Motzei Shabbos Keynote Session marked a highlight of the convention, drawing a massive crowd to the International Ballroom, with thousands participating remotely, as they did throughout the weekend. The session began with a message from the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah featuring Rabbi Aharon Feldman, chaver of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and rosh hayeshiva of Yeshivas Ner Yisroel. Rabbi Chaim Dovid Zwiebel, Executive Vice President of Agudath Israel of America, followed with his remarks, emphasizing the role of Agudath Israel in advocating for the needs of Klal Yisroel. Droshos were then delivered by Rabbi Elya Brudny, chaver of the
Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and rosh yeshiva of Mirrer Yeshiva, Rabbi David Ozeri, rov of Yad Yosef Torah Center, and Rabbi Uren Reich, rosh hayeshiva of Yeshiva Ohr Zechariah. The session was chaired by the convention chairman, Avi Schron.
Rabbi Ozeri shared a deeply moving and heart-wrenching account of his recent visit to southern Eretz Yisroel, where he bore witness to the unimaginable devastation wrought by the horrific Simchas Torah attack on October 7. Rabbi Ozeri vividly described the scenes of destruction and despair that he encountered, painting a picture of the profound loss and trauma suffered by so many.
During his visit, Rabbi Ozeri had the opportunity to meet with survivors of the attacks — men, women, and children who bore visible and invisible scars from the horrors they had endured. He described their courage and resilience, even as they grappled with profound grief and loss. Many shared harrowing stories of their experiences, including miraculous escapes and the unimaginable pain of losing loved ones.
In his address, Rav Uren Reich passionately called upon Klal Yisroel to truly be nosei be'ohl im chaveiro, sharing the burden of others. Rav Reich emphasized that in moments of pain and anguish, whether felt individually or communally, every member of Klal Yisroel must strive to truly feel the suffering of their fellow Yid, making his burden theirs.
The session featured a video presentation paying tribute to the gedolei Torah who passed away during the last year.
The Sunday Closing Keynote Session titled "Facing the Future in a World Gone Mad" featured Rabbi Yehoshua Abba Busel, R"M at Beth Medrash Govoha and rov of the High Street Shul in Lakewood, Rabbi Doniel Asher Kleinman, rov of Khal Nachlas Dovid in Brooklyn, and Rabbi Eytan Feiner, rov of Congregation Kneseth Israel/The White Shul in Far Rockaway. The speakers addressed the challenges facing Yidden in a rapidly changing world, offering insights on how to maintain focus, resilience, and a connection to the Ribono Shel Olam in uncertain times. The session was chaired by Rabbi Labish Becker, Executive Director of Agudath Israel of America.
Thursday Opening Sessions
The convention kicked off with a series of impactful Thursday evening sessions. In the session "Kids in Pain: Why Do They Struggle - and How Do We Respond?", Rabbi Gershon Schaffel, rov of Young Israel of Skokie, and Rabbi Sender Kaszirer, rosh yeshiva of the Mesivta of Eatontown, joined Rabbi Binyomin Greenspoon, clinical director of Nesivos, for a powerful conversation about understanding the struggles facing today's youth. With moderator Rabbi Yitzchok Hisiger, Director of Torah Initiatives at Agudath Israel of America, the panelists offered both practical and compassionate insights into how to support struggling children. They addressed both the emotional challenges and the societal pressures that often lead to struggles, offering actionable advice on how to provide proper guidance and support in a compassionate manner.
Meanwhile, another session, The Parnossoh Crisis: Real or Self-Inflicted?, brought together Rabbi Yosef Viener, rov of Congregation Shaar Hashamayim in Monsey, Naftali Horowitz, managing director at Morgan Stanley, and Eli Fried, financial advisor and founder of GeltGuide. With moderator Rabbi Yitz Frank, Executive Director of Agudath Israel of Ohio, the group discussed the complexities surrounding the parnossoh challenges faced by many frum families today. They examined both the realities of the economic landscape and the mindset that sometimes leads to financial strain within the frum community.
Thursday Night
Thursday evening's post-keynote session, "Asking for a Friend," brought together two renowned rabbonim for a thought-provoking and engaging discussion. Rabbi Yisroel Reisman, rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva Torah Vodaas, and Rabbi Uri Deutsch, rov of Bais Medrash Tiferes Yosef of Forest Park in Lakewood, delved into some of the most pressing and delicate questions that often arise in the frum community. The session was skillfully moderated by Yisroel Besser, who ensured that the conversation remained both insightful and relevant to the concerns of the audience. Rabbi Reisman and Rabbi Deutsch offered their unique perspectives on a variety of topics, navigating sensitive issues with wisdom and clarity.
In a parallel session for women, Mrs. Shavy Grossberg captivated the audience with a heartfelt and inspiring presentation.
Rav Aharon Feldman
Friday Morning Sessions
On Friday morning, the convention featured an important series of sessions that addressed some of the most pressing issues within the frum community.
The Conference of Synagogue Rabbonim of Agudath Israel held a closed session. Rabbi Aharon Feldman, chaver of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Ner Yisroel in Baltimore, began the session with divrei brochoh, offering words of inspiration and encouragement to the rabbinic leaders in attendance.
The session then turned its focus on kashrus, with Rabbi Sholem Fishbane, kashrus administrator of the Chicago Rabbinical Council, addressing the intricacies of maintaining kashrus standards in shuls. Rabbi Fishbane's deep knowledge and practical insights shed light on the challenges involved in overseeing kashrus in such a setting. Rabbi Nesanel Snow, chairman of the AKO Shul Kashrus Committee, joined the discussion, elaborating on the essential role that rabbinic leadership plays in upholding kashrus standards within kehillos. The session concluded with a presentation by Dr. Yitzchok Shindler, Psy.D., director of Rambam Behavioral Health, who addressed a topic that has long been sensitive in the frum community: the stigma surrounding therapy.
In the concurrent sessions that followed, the focus shifted to key issues that affect the community on a broader scale. Rabbi Sholem Fishbane, kashrus administrator of the Chicago Rabbinical Council, and Rabbi Duvid Babad, Tarnopol Dayan, explored the differences between heimishe kashrus and national kashrus standards. The session, moderated by Rabbi Yitzchok Hisiger, Director of Torah Initiatives at Agudath Israel of America, provided attendees with valuable insight into the distinct approaches to kashrus oversight. The discussion touched on the various standards and practices involved in each approach, offering attendees a clearer understanding of the complex landscape of kashrus.
Meanwhile, a discussion titled "The Tuition Tug of War: An Honest Conversation" brought together Rabbi Moshe Bender, segan rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva Darchei Torah in Far Rockaway, and Mr. Yisroel Orzel, president of Yeshiva of Spring Valley, to address the challenges families face in managing tuition costs. The conversation was both candid and constructive. Moderated by Rabbi Shlomo Soroka, Director of Government Affairs for Agudath Israel of Illinois, the session fostered an open dialogue about one of the most challenging issues facing the community today.
As the morning continued, the concurrent sessions engaged the audience with important topics. Dr. Yitzchok Shindler, Psy.D., director of Rambam Behavioral Health, focused on "A New Approach to Therapy in the Frum World." Dr. Shindler emphasized the need for greater understanding and support for those seeking therapy. His session offered practical guidance on how to create a more open and accepting environment for mental health within the frum community.
Rabbi Moshe Rotberg, rov of Khal Zichron Yechezkel in Toms River, and Tzodek Katz, a well-known shadchan from Lakewood, led a session on the delicate balance between bashert and hishtadlus in the shidduch process. The discussion provided perspectives on how much effort should be invested in the pursuit of a shidduch and where the line should be drawn between trusting in Divine providence and taking personal initiative. Moderated by Rabbi Ariel Sadwin, Executive Director of Agudath Israel's Mid-Atlantic Region, this session gave attendees clarity on navigating the complexities of the shidduch journey.
Rav Elya Brudny
Leil Shabbos
Shabbos at the convention began with an uplifting Kabbolas Shabbos, led by the Shira Choir, who provided neginah throughout the Shabbos, setting the tone for a truly inspiring Shabbos.
During Kabbolas Shabbos, Mr. Shlomo Werdiger, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Agudath Israel of America, offered heartfelt greetings to the attendees. Rabbi Aharon Dovid Goldberg, chaver of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and rosh hayeshiva of Telshe Yeshiva, then delivered a drosho.
At the same time, in the Crowne Ballroom, the women gathered for their own Kabbolas Shabbos, after which divrei his'orerus were delivered by Rabbi David Ozeri, rav of the Yad Yosef Torah Center.
Following the seudas Shabbos, the leil Shabbos concurrent sessions offered deep, engaging discussions on pivotal topics. The first session of the evening was titled "Eisov Sonei L'Yaakov: A Torah Perspective on Combating Today's Rampant Anti-Semitism." Rabbi Moshe Donnebaum, rov of Kehillas Heichal HaTorah and rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva Betzeil Hachochmah in Melbourne, Australia, led this compelling discussion. Rabbi Donnebaum examined the timeless hatred of Eisov toward Yaakov and explored its manifestation in modern-day anti-Semitism. Meanwhile, Rabbi Yaakov Robinson, menahel of the Midwest Agudas Yisroel Council of Synagogue Rabbonim and rov of Beis Medrash Mekor Hachaim in Chicago, delivered a powerful presentation titled "Golus Edom: Its Nature and How to Fight It." Rabbi Robinson's talk delved into the nature of the golus under Edom, its ongoing impact on the Jewish people, and how Klal Yisroel can remain resilient and steadfast in the face of these long-standing challenges.
The Leil Shabbos Keynote Session took place in the shul. Rabbi Nochum Binder, rov of Hampshire Heights Shul, opened the session. Rabbi Elya Brudny, chaver of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and rosh yeshiva of the Mirrer Yeshiva, followed with a passionate drosho. The session was chaired by Rabbi Yechiel Kalish, CEO of Hatzalah.
Afterwards, a sheves achim chaired by Binyomin Septom featured divrei Torah from Rabbi Yisroel Perlow, the Novominsker Rebbe, and Rabbi Uren Reich, rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva Ohr Zechariah in Lakewood.
Simultaneously, Rabbi Paysach Krohn, best-selling author of the Maggid Series, had been scheduled to lead the always popular "Friday Night with the Maggid" session. However, just hours earlier, Rabbi Krohn was taken to the hospital due to a stroke. In his place, Tehillim was recited for his refuah, and then, on short notice, Rabbi Shrage Malinowitz, rov of Khal Shearim B'Tefillah D'Hampshire Hills, spoke in Rabbi Krohn's stead, quoting thoughts and divrei Torah that he had heard from Rabbi Krohn and other material that Rabbi Krohn had prepared to share at that very session.
Shabbos Morning
Shabbos morning, at the second Shacharis minyan, Rabbi Yosef Frankel, chaver of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and Vyelepoler Rov, delivered a powerful drosho.
At 10:00 AM, a shailos uteshuvos session featured Rabbi Reuven Feinstein, rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva of Staten Island, who answered questions on a variety of topics. Moderated by Rabbi Yaakov Robinson, menahel of the Midwest Agudas Yisroel Council of Synagogue Rabbonim and rov of Beis Medrash Mekor Hachaim in Chicago, the session was both enlightening and engaging, with Rav Reuven's responses providing practical guidance on a variety of topics.
The morning continued with a Kiddush and then a keynote session, titled, "Faith in the Storm: Strengthening Emunah When It's Hardest to Believe." Rabbi Shloime Mandel, rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva of Brooklyn, and Rabbi Yitzchok Sorotzkin, chaver of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and rosh hayeshiva of Mesivta of Lakewood and Telshe Yeshiva, addressed the session, which was chaired by Boruch Munk.
At the same time, in the Crowne Ballroom, Mrs. Dina Breiny Smith addressed the women, offering insights and inspiration to help them strengthen their emunah and navigate the challenges of daily life with faith and resilience. Her talk provided the women in attendance with the tools to grow spiritually, reinforcing the importance of maintaining faith in every circumstance. The women were absolutely riveted by the presentation and continually surrounded Mrs. Smith for the duration of Shabbos, gleaning chizuk and insights.
After the seudas Shabbos, where a dvar Torah was delivered by Rabbi Avi Schnall, Director of Federal Education Affairs at Agudath Israel of America, the afternoon sessions offered deep, meaningful discussions. In the State Ballroom, a session on "Shalom Bayis: Strengthening the Peace in Our Homes" featured Rabbi Moshe Rotberg, rov of Khal Zichron Yechezkel, and
Rabbi Meir Braunstein, rov of Agudath Israel of Long Island. At the same time, a session titled "Behind Closed Doors: What We Wish Our Mispallelim Knew" featured Rabbi Ariel Shoshan, rov of Ahavas Torah/The Scottsdale Torah Center, and Rabbi Shrage Malinowitz, rov of Khal Shearim B'Tefillah D'Hampshire Hills.
The afternoon continued with Mincha and then Seudah Shlishis. In the International Ballroom East, Seudah Shlishis featured Rabbi Aryeh Malkiel Kotler, chaver of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and rosh yeshiva of Beth Medrash Govoha, who was joined by Rabbi Yehoshua Perlow, the Novominsker Rebbe. Simultaneously, the Lefkowitz Leadership Initiative Seudah Shlishis featured Rabbi Aharon Weinberg, maggid shiur at the Nirbater Bais Medrash, and Rabbi Yaakov Robinson, menahel of the Midwest Agudas Yisroel Council of Synagogue Rabbonim and rov of Beis Medrash Mekor Hachaim in Chicago. The session was chaired by Shimon Lefkowitz.
Meanwhile, in the Crowne Ballroom, the women gathered for their Seudah Shlishis, where Mrs. Debbie Selengut delivered a powerful address.
Motzei Shabbos
On Motzei Shabbos, at 7:00 P.M., two concurrent sessions took place. The session titled "Simchas Torah/Oct. 7th a Year Later: A Reawakening" brought together Rabbi Elazar Grunberger, founder and director of Lev Echad, and Rabbi Chanan Gordon, senior lecturer at the Gateways Organization. The session, moderated by Avrohom Weinstock, Esq., Chief of Staff at Agudath Israel of America, provided a poignant and reflective look back over the last year or so and the spiritual reawakening that has been experienced since then.
At the same time, another timely discussion took place on the topic of "Social Media and the World of WhatsApp: How Do We Win the Battle?" Rabbi Moshe Rotberg, rov of Khal Zichron Yechezkel, and Rabbi Moshe Don Kestenbaum, rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva Gedola Ohr Yitzchak and author of Olam Hamiddos, addressed the growing influence of social media and WhatsApp and its impact on the frum community. Moderated by Rabbi Ari Strulowitz, Director of Operations at Agudath Israel of Illinois, the session offered insight into navigating the digital world while maintaining one's Torah values.
On the Agudah Live broadcast, Rabbi Ari Weisenfeld, Director of the Office of State Relations at Agudath Israel of America, was joined by Rabbi Shlomo Soroka, Director of Government Affairs at Agudath Israel of Illinois, who interviewed various different guests.
The Pirchei Live! broadcast in the hotel lobby brought excitement and energy to the evening, as the grand raffle drawings for the Pirchei Hasmadah Challenge were held. Hosted by Rabbi Yehuda Kohn, National Director of Pirchei Agudas Yisroel of America, and co-hosted by Rabbi Yaacov Shalom, this lively event celebrated the achievements of the Pirchei program, inspiring the next generation of Torah learners and showcasing the incredible efforts of the children who participated in the challenge.
Following the Motzei Shabbos Keynote Session, the evening continued with melavah malkah and lively zemiros.
The women's melavah malkah featured a special presentation by Mrs. Shavy Grossberg on "Transforming the World with Kindness."
The Motzei Shabbos sessions were a fitting end to the Shabbos experience, offering convention attendees spiritual nourishment and inspiration
Sunday Morning
The Sunday morning sessions continued the momentum of the previous days, addressing critical topics facing the frum community and offering valuable insights for navigating contemporary challenges.
session titled "New Realities in Washington: What is Our Agenda?" was moderated by Rabbi A.D. Motzen, National Director of Government Affairs at Agudath Israel of America, and brought together a distinguished panel of experts. Rabbi Abba Cohen, Vice President for Government Affairs, Washington Director and Counsel at Agudath Israel of America, Rabbi Yeruchim Silber, Director of New York Government Relations at Agudath Israel of America, Rabbi Avi Schnall, Director of Federal Education Affairs at Agudath Israel of America, and Rabbi Yossi Charner, Director of Congressional Affairs at Agudath Israel of America, provided insights into the evolving political landscape in Washington and its implications for the Jewish community. They discussed the critical issues facing the community, including education, religious freedom, and political advocacy, outlining the steps Agudath Israel is taking to represent and protect the interests of Klal Yisroel in the halls of government. The session was a call to action, inspiring participants to remain vigilant and involved in shaping the policies that affect the future of the Jewish people.
At the same time, a session titled "Bitachon in the Business World: Thriving with Faith in a Competitive Landscape" offered a practical perspective on maintaining faith in a competitive and often cutthroat business environment. Rabbi Moshe Donnebaum, rov of Kehillas Heichal HaTorah and rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva Betzeil Hachochmah in Melbourne, Australia, and Rabbi Doniel Staum, LMSW, rebbi at Heichal HaTorah in Teaneck and principal of Mesivta Orchos Yosher in Monsey, shared their insights on balancing bitachon with the demands of the business world. The discussion highlighted how a strong connection to Torah can empower individuals to succeed in their professional lives while maintaining a sense of purpose beyond material success.
For the women, a special session titled "The Heroic Balancing Act: How Women Navigate Life's Responsibilities with Bitachon and Grace" took place in the State Ballroom. Rebbetzin Aviva Feiner shared her wisdom on the challenges and opportunities faced by women in today's world. She spoke about the delicate balance between family, work, and community responsibilities, and how women can thrive with bitachon in their hearts, trusting that Hashem provides the strength and resources needed to fulfill all their roles. Rebbetzin Feiner's words resonated deeply with the women in attendance.
The morning culminated with the Closing Keynote Session.
A Weekend of Strengthening Faith and Achdus
The Agudah Convention 5785 was an unforgettable weekend filled with unending chizuk. It was a reminder to all attendees that despite the challenges we face, we are united in our belief in Hashem and our commitment to Klal Yisroel. The weekend was not just a convention, but a reaffirmation of our shared mission and the strength that comes from standing together as a community, anchored in Torah and unwavering emunah in the Divine plan.
The convention sessions can be viewed and listened to at AgudahConvention.org and on TorahAnytime.com.
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