“They are treated like diamonds—I was greatly impressed,” remarked Rabbi Kalman Bar Shlita, Chief Rabbi of Israel, during his recent visit to the Ohr Avner institutions. Rabbi Bar expressed deep admiration for the care and dedication provided to the students.
Two weeks ago, as part of a broader tour of Ohr Avner USA’s extensive educational network, Rabbi Kalman Bar, who also serves as President of the Chief Rabbinate Council, visited the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s Ohel. Headquartered in Queens, Ohr Avner USA has a far-reaching impact across the region, supported by the visionary generosity of philanthropist Mr. Lev Leviev.
Accompanied by Ohr Avner USA directors Rabbi Zalman Zvulonov and Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Wolowik, Rabbi Bar toured the institutions, witnessing their remarkable growth and achievements. During the visit, he was introduced to an inspiring new initiative established in memory of Dr. Yoel Leviev, of blessed memory. Dr. Leviev, the 24-year-old grandson of Mr. Lev Leviev, tragically passed away over Sukkot this year in Israel.
Rabbi Bar also inaugurated the magnificent new building of the Ohr Avner community in Hollis Hills, Queens, further cementing the institution’s dedication to fostering Jewish education and community development—observing firsthand Ohr Avner’s expansion.
«Polishing Diamonds»
Despite the frigid winter weather on Francis Lewis Boulevard in Queens, the brown wooden door of the Rebbe’s Ohel opened and closed repeatedly. Delegates from around the world, attending the Kinus Hashluchim, took their last moments in New York to enter the Ohel, seeking the Rebbe’s brachos before their departure.
In the mid-afternoon, Rabbi Bar exited the Ohel. Visibly moved, he had just concluded an extended, silent prayer at the Ohel, pouring out his heart for the entire nation. He was accompanied by the directors, overseeing the vast Ohr Avner USA network for Bukharian communities in the U.S., Rabbi Zvulonov and Rabbi Wolowik.
Rabbi Bar and his wife, Rebbetzin Dafna, had come to New York as guests of Ohr Avner USA, headquartered about 20 minutes from the Ohel. This grand Jewish and educational empire serves thousands of Bukharian families in the area and across the U.S., supported and inspired by its sponsor, Mr. Lev Leviev, who also chairs the World Congress of Bukharian Jews. Over the years, Ohr Avner has become a cornerstone of Orthodox Jewish life in New York, attracting public figures and dignitaries from around the globe.
Weeks after assuming his esteemed role, Rabbi Bar dedicated a full day to an extended visit to the institutions, following his participation in the Kinus HaShluchim banquet. The highlight of his visit was davening Mincha at the Ohel.
Standing on the roadside after leaving the Ohel, Rabbi Bar shared his impressions:
«I must say, I was deeply moved by the blessed work being done here. We visited the yeshiva and the school, and what they are accomplishing is truly remarkable. The institutions are growing, and thanks are due to philanthropist, Mr. Lev Leviev, along with his daughter, who oversees the institutions, Mrs. Chagit Sofiev-Leviev, his son, Rabbi Yehoshua Leviev, and his son-in-law, Mr. Gabriel Sofiev. Special thanks also to Rabbis Zvulonov and Wolowik for their holy work. You can see how they treat each child like a diamond—not a small diamond, but a large one. This blessed work bears magnificent fruits. I pray they continue to elevate Torah and Judaism until the coming of the Messiah.»
Visiting the Institutions
The Chief Rabbi’s visit to the expanding institutions began just hours after the powerful Kinus HaShluchim banquet. Rabbi Bar participated in a unique gathering attended by nearly 20 Shluchim and their families, who serve Bukharian communities worldwide.
The event featured prominent figures in the Ohr Avner network, including Rabbi Baruch Babayev, Chief Rabbi of Bukharian communities in the U.S. and Canada, and other key leaders such as Rabbi Zvulonov, Rabbi Wolowik, and Rabbi Shmuel Kogan. Together, they celebrated the institutions’ achievements and future potential.
Touring the Educational Empire
Rabbi Bar attended Shacharit at the main synagogue of the Bukharian community in Queens. He later visited the community’s Beit Din offices, exploring their comprehensive religious services. He then met with rabbis and leaders from both Bukharian and Ashkenazi Orthodox communities, creating unity and collaboration.
The tour included visits to three educational institutions: JIQ, the elementary school led by Rebbetzin Batya Zvulonov, the Ohr Chana High School under Rebbetzin Rivka Wolowik, and the bustling preschools. Rabbi Bar and his wife addressed the students, encouraging their continued Torah study.
Later, Rabbi Bar inaugurated a new building for the thriving Hollis Hills community led by Rabbi Daniel and Rebbetzin Chana Zvulonov. This building represents a significant milestone in the community’s growth.
Encouraging the Next Generation
The day concluded with an impactful Torah class led by Rabbi Asher Vaknin for hundreds of Jewish students, a project inspired by the late Dr. Yoel Leviev. The Chief Rabbi and Rebbetzin participated, delivering heartfelt messages and praying for the safe return of captives in Gaza.
«I now end my visit to this wonderful community, which has achieved remarkable success.” Rabbi Bar shared as he reflected on his visit to the many Ohr Avner Institutions.
“May they continue to shine a great light in Queens and beyond, bringing joy to all. Wishing everyone a bright and happy Hanukkah.»