On March 17, 2024, the Gorsky Kavkazi Jewish community joyously welcomed a new Torah Scroll at 347 Ocean Parkway made possible by the generosity of Eddie and Leora Azaraev. Their love and devotion to their community shone through as they welcomed guests from near and far, who had traveled to join in this major celebration.

For days, the leaders of the community worked tirelessly to prepare for this momentous occasion, ensuring every detail was perfect. The festivities were launched by esteemed leaders, founders, and rabbis among whom were R. Yosef Elishevitz, Mr. Avyatar Ruvinov, Mr. Ariel Ilazarov, Mr. Adinyau Pardilov, R. Ariel Yelloz, R. Abargel, Mr. Shlomo Abramov, R. Malka, and the leaders of the Rabbinical Alliance of America.

It was a special day, the 7th of Adar, which was the yarzheit of Moshe Rabeinu. It happened to be that both of Eddie’s grandparents Eliyahu and Dinor Azaraev passed away on the 7th of Adar, and that is why Eddie decided that it is a special day when he wants to dedicate the Torah in their memory.

The procession filled the streets of Ocean Parkway, led by a magnificent Torah truck adorned with a crown and accompanied by music. Traffic was stopped as hundreds of community members walked together. The Gorsky Kavkazi Jewish community came together in a beautiful display of intergenerational unity, as young children, teenagers, parents, and grandparents all marched together, dancing with the Torah scroll and singing with joy.

The procession was more unique by the blending of traditional Kavkazi melodies with Jewish music. After, guests enjoyed abundance of food, with shish kebabs and a lavish food menu that seemed to never end.

This momentous occasion marked an impressive gathering of nearly 500 people and left a lasting impact.

Mazel tov to the entire community on this celebration!