Merrick Reverberates with the Sound of the Torah in 90 degrees heat! 

In a grand celebration on Sunday, June 8th, a large crowd along with a slate of politicians and rabbinical dignitaries welcomed and dedicated a precious new Torah scroll - sponsored by the Gewirtz family and dedicated in loving memory of their dear daughter and sister, Sharon Faye Gewirtz.

 

While publishers can knock out millions of copies with dozens of new titles a week, crafting a single Torah scroll takes over a year to complete. What's the holdup? Computerized printing presses make printing a cinch, although the results often have many errors. However, timeless dictums hold for a certified Torah scribe and everything from the character of the scribe to the quality of the parchment and type of ink are taken into account. Furthermore, each of the 304,808 letters and notations must be scripted to perfection. The slightest error voids the entire 54-portion parchment.

 

Despite the '90 degrees' heat, the community came out in large numbers to welcome Chabad of Merrick's new community Sefer Torah with a completion and dedication ceremony. Participants had the opportunity to fill in a letter of the Torah, alongside the scribe during the completion ceremony held at the Merrick Train Station Gazebo. All enjoyed the hands on, educational workshop given by Rabbi Clapman, a scribe, explaining the intricacies of how the Torah is made, written and completed.

 

"This is a very auspicious day for the Jews of Merrick and Bellmore!", said Rabbi Kramer.

 

Celebrations continued with a grand parade down Sunrise Highway. The streets of Merrick reverberated with the sounds of music and rejoicing as the crowds danced around the Torah as the 'Dancing Rabbis', distinguished community leaders along with friends and guests were given the honor of carrying the Torah scroll along the route. Upon arrival at the corner of Hewlett Ave. and Seneca Gate, Hakafot (dancing circles) took place and the customary verses were recited.

 

With the participation of men, women and children, the celebration, replete with singing, dancing and joy was truly a memorable event.

 
For photos, click here.