Tens of thousands of Jews here and abroad are planning these days, with emotional anticipation, for a significant trip to Lizensk, Poland, to pray at the gravesite of the Rebbe R' Elimelech of Lizensk on his yahrtzeit. Such a trip has been hailed over the years as laden with sanctity by tzaddikim past and present, and as very propitious and powerful.
The Biala Rebbe davening at the grave of Rebbe R' Elimelech
A very large group of Chassidim from all over the world, under the leadership of the Admor of Rachmestrivka, traveled there last year for a short stay, each member with his own personal prayers and requests. They stayed in the Lizensk Hachnosas Orchim hostel, provided with adequate heating to ward off the freezing Polish cold of this time of year. The number of annual visitors has increased exponentially.
This year, the gravesite will have a major face-lift for the yahrtzeit. A spacious Ohel Tefillah has been erected adjoining the tomb with adequate separate entrances for men and women, a separate section for Kohanim with an open window to the grave itself. Additional shteiblach will serve the praying public, and a kitchen and dining room will be set up for all the visitors. Mobile restrooms will also accommodate the needs of the many visitors to make their stay as pleasantly convenient as possible.
The Newly Bought Buiding
The news this year is that, after many years of anticipation, after endless negotiations with the Polish government and the non-Jewish tenants, the building currently at the site of the of the Rebbe R' Elimelech was purchased. It will soon be renovated to serve the community.
