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12 HASHALOM March
2017
March 2017
HASHALOM
13
“‘If you will it, it is no dream; and if you do not will it, a dream it is and a dream it will stay”.
Theodore Herzl’s immortal words on his vision for a Jewish homeland were brought to life once again, this time in the seaside village of uMhlanga
Rocks where the decades long aspiration of Reb Shlomo and DevorahWainer to open a mikvah became a reality.
The Shalom Mikvah Complex, comprising luxury and private men’s and women’s mikvahs as well as a convenient keilim mikvah [for utensils], was
officially opened with a special ceremony on the evening ofWednesday 14th December 2016 – 14 Kislev 5777. Situated next door to the Chabad in
Umhlanga Outreach and Activity Centre, Shul and uMhlanga Kosher Guest House in the heart of uMhlanga, the event celebrating these world class
facilities was attended by many locals as well as an illustrious list of Rabbonim from the South African Jewish community and beyond.
Rabbi Meir Posen, world expert and Halachic authority on mikvahs; Rabbi Anton Klein from the Beth Din in Johannesburg; Rabbi Michael Katz co-
director of Chabad House in Johannesburg ; Rabbi Sholom Ber Groner, Rov of the Chabad Community in SouthAfrica and Halachic authority, were all
in attendance.Together with Rabbi Posen, the Chief Rabbi of South Africa, DrWarren Goldstein shared a few words of congratulations Mazal Tov on
the auspicious occasion and highlighted the importance of a mikvah for the growth and spiritual development of a community. Chief Rabbi Goldstein
also mentioned what a great resource the mikvah would be to the hundreds of holidaymakers who flock to uMhlanga and Chabad in uMhlanga to
experience Reb Shlomo and Devorah’s famous hospitality.TheWainer’s humble, dedicated and tireless work to keep the shul going throughout the
year, and to offer all the fantastic learning, family activities and outreach work that they do, was especially praised.
Rabbi Jared Garber took the opportunity to make a Siyyum on the Mishnayos that his study group had been learning since the start of the mikvah
building – a truly special way to mark the completion of the mikvah project. “Sometimes you do one mitzvah and others come around”, said Rabbi
Garber.Afterwards, John andAnna Moshal were presented with a gift of appreciation from Reb Shlomo for their financial assistance with the ambitious
project. John Moshal said a few words on the wonderful work done by theWainers and the role that Judaism and its values has played on his family’s
philanthropic work. Shlomo then took the opportunity to thank all those who had played a role in seeing the mikvah come to light. He made mention
of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson’s vision to make Yiddishkeit accessible to each and every Jew, and that one should
strengthen one’s own structures, which are built on sincerity and purity, on Torah and Mitzvahs, even if it needs actual mesirus nefesh or sacrifice for
that good. Reb Shlomo thanked project manager David Unterslak and the many architects and builders for their hard work.
Just before the delicious refreshments were served, Reb Shlomo informed the crowd that there was still a chance to be a part of this important mitzvah.
Contributions to the mikvah fund are still being accepted and no amount is too big or too small.“Irrespective of the amount of the investment, each
person has share in the mitzvah and it wouldn’t be complete without their involvement. Being involved is better than sitting on the sidelines watching”,
he said. Do not miss the chance to have a share in this important initiative which will only strengthen our dynamic and exceptional community.
For more information and to make a secure online contribution, be sure to check out the website www.mikvahrocks.co.za. Ladies Mikvah by
appointment only. Call Devorah 0727757753.
the grand opening of
The
Shalom Mikvah Complex
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