Dear Editor,
I am writing this article as a reflection on my experience with the Loitzker Rebbe here in Cincinnati nearly 3 weeks ago. The Rebbe is the leader of a Hasidic dynasty in Israel originally from a city in the Ukraine called Lutsk. The dynasty comes originally from the Karlin-Stolin sect of Hasidim who are known for their passionate prayers and loving of every Jew no matter where they come from or their religious affiliation. The Rebbe himself, although a long time resident of Israel, is known to travel the U.S. on missions of “Chizuk,” or strengthening of Jewish communities. I came to know him through my affiliation with the Karlin-Stoliner Hasidim. I grew up as a Conservative Jew in Los Angeles and found my way to observant Judaism through studying in Yeshivos (rabbinical seminaries) both in Israel and the U.S. Throughout my experiences in Hasidic communities in Israel, I felt an incredible connection to the Loitzker Rebbe as he is an American who speaks English and can converse on topics ranging from Jewish mysticism (of which he is an expert) all the way to the stock market, international affairs, etc. I called The Rebbe’s assistant and invited them to come to Cincinnati for a Shabbos to help uplift and strengthen our growing Orthodox community. The assistant asked The Rebbe if this was something he wanted to participate in and he agreed. Soon, we were met with the nearly impossible task of finding accommodations for 150+ Hasidim who travelled to be with their Rebbe here in Cincinnati. The Rebbe is known for his piety, he doesn’t eat or sleep during the week and spends whatever free time he has either studying Jewish texts or giving guidance for any person who seeks his counsel. It was truly an incredible experience that the entire Cincinnati community will never forget. The Rebbe spoke to each individual for as long as they needed and the festivities Friday night didn’t end until 4:00 AM. I hope one day soon the Loitzker Rebbe will return to Cincinnati and even more people will get to experience this incredible rabbi in our midst.
Thank you,
Meir Sigel
Cincinnati, OH