A Unique Event in Kishinev
This past weekend, the Jewish community of Kishinev, the capital of Moldova, experienced a deeply moving and unique event—the dedication of the “Mikveh Liel,” the first and only women’s mikveh in the city. Held in memory of Liel Dina Namdar, a 15-year-old girl tragically lost in a car accident, the event became an inspiring gathering of spirituality, remembrance, and unity. It left a profound impression on all who attended.
Guests from Around the Globe
Guests from around the globe came to participate in the occasion. Among the attendees were Rabbi Eliezer Avtzon, Chairman of “Global Jewish Assistance,” and Rabbi Mendel Nachshon, head of the Chabad yeshiva in Nazareth Illit. Many arrived before Shabbat to take part in a weekend filled with spiritual inspiration and genuine Jewish joy.
Honoring Liel’s Memory
Three years after Liel’s tragic passing, her parents, Efraim and Maya Namdar, along with their close friends Yehoshua and Rachel Astroy, chose a unique way to honor her memory. They decided to establish a mikveh in Kishinev named “Mikveh Liel,” symbolizing new life and spiritual connection to the community.
A Shabbat of Unity and Faith
The Shabbat preceding the mikveh’s dedication was marked by unity and faith. Local community members and visiting guests joined together for uplifting Shabbat meals featuring “l’chaims,” soulful singing, Torah insights, and warm blessings. One participant remarked emotionally, “This Shabbat strengthened our faith and reminded us of the power of a united community.”
The Dedication Ceremony
On Sunday morning, the mikveh dedication ceremony took place, becoming the weekend’s most poignant moment. The ribbon at the mikveh’s entrance was cut by Rebbetzin Leah Abelsky, alongside Chaya Abelsky, Mr. Simcha Weinberg, Mr. Shabtai Hanukayev, and Rabbi Zushe Abelsky, Director of Chabad Moldova. During the ceremony, a letter from the Rebbe was read aloud by community president Mr. Simcha Bozor. Rabbi Abelsky expressed heartfelt gratitude to the “Mikveh Tahara” organization, led by Rabbi Waldman, for their pivotal role in bringing the project to fruition. He also thanked the European Rabbinical Center and the Meromim Foundation for their unwavering support in completing the initiative.
A Moving Conclusion
The ceremony continued with a moving Priestly Blessing delivered by philanthropist Yosef Cohen. The event’s climax was an emotional eulogy delivered by Efraim Namdar, Liel’s father, who concluded with a tearful recitation of the Kaddish prayer in memory of his beloved daughter. Following this, Rabbi Avtzon led a memorial prayer.
A Festive Celebration
The event concluded with a festive meal, where participants shared their experiences and continued celebrating this extraordinary achievement.
A Symbol of Unity, Hope, and Renewal
“Mikveh Liel” is not just a memorial project—it is a symbol of unity, hope, and renewal for the Jewish community of Kishinev. It stands as a living testament to the power of faith to transform challenging moments into acts of kindness and generosity. The community left the event with a sense of pride and purpose, committed to continuing Liel’s legacy and strengthening Jewish life in the city for generations to come.
