Though the Satmar Rebbe, Reb Zalmen Leib Teitelbaum Shlit”a’s visit to Eretz Yisroel was short and his itinerary filled to capacity he made time to visit the Buneinu center and bring chizzuk to its members.
The Rebbe was welcomed by hundreds of orphans as well as Buneinu’s leadership; R’ Yakov Eliezer Shisha and R’ Mayer Aker.
Both R’ Shisha and R’ Aker outlined in great detail the pain and anguish that these orphaned children go through and how Buneinu steps in to ease their burden. Some of the children who benefit from project Buneinu are Satmar Chassidim and the Rebbe was touched by the kindness and benevolent assistance which Buneinu provides for them.
Reb Chaim Tzvi Teitelbaum Shlit”a, son of the Satmar Rebbe, also came for the visit. It was especially meaningful since he is personally involved and in touch with Buneinu staff throughout the year.
Also present at the event was Reb Duvid Levy. Reb Duvid comes to the Buneinu center each week to take care of especially difficult cases and questions which came up over the week. He also talks to the chassanim and prepares them for married life. The Satmar Rebbe was greatly impressed and inspired when Reb Duvid told him about the great impression Buneinu has on the orphaned children.
Also on the program was a siyum on the completion of ‘shishu sidrai mishna’ by one of the yesomim.
The climax was when kaddish was recited in unison by all the young orphans. There wasn’t a dry eye as the children said kaddish in honor of their late parents.
The Rebbe didn’t leave before giving over poignant words of chizzuk and warm wishes as well as personally shaking the hand of each child.
Each child received a beautiful Tehillim as a keepsake.
The memories, warm words of chizzuk and heartfelt wishes will surely accompany each child through the long and harsh winter.
