Worcester’s Lag B’Omer Tradition Continues to Shine Bright
Central Massachusetts came together to celebrate Lag B’Omer as Central Mass Chabad, under the direction of Rabbi Mendel and Chani Fogelman, hosted a beautiful community-wide event in partnership with Chabad of UMass and Shrewsbury.
by COLlive Editor · COLliveCentral Massachusetts came together to celebrate Lag B’Omer as Central Mass Chabad, under the direction of Rabbi Mendel and Chani Fogelman, hosted a beautiful community-wide event in partnership with Chabad of UMass and Shrewsbury.
With gorgeous sunshine and perfect weather, more than 150 participants, young and old alike, gathered for an unforgettable afternoon of Jewish pride and fun. Families enjoyed a lively carnival atmosphere featuring games, attractions, live chickens, a delicious BBQ buffet, and activities for all ages. As the celebration continued into the evening, participants gathered around a beautiful Lag B’Omer bonfire.
One of the highlights of the afternoon was Rabbi Mendel Fogelman’s moving remarks about the history and spirit of Lag B’Omer in Worcester. Rabbi Fogelman shared cherished memories of his father, Rabbi Hershel Fogelman obm, who for decades organized grand Lag B’Omer celebrations and parades throughout the city as powerful public expressions of Jewish pride and unity.
He recalled one especially memorable year when a massive Lag B’Omer parade was planned in Worcester, featuring the Ft. Devens Army Band and hundreds of local public school children participating. On the morning of the event, however, dark gray clouds filled the sky and the forecast called for rain. With so many people counting on the event and recognizing the tremendous Kiddush Hashem such a gathering would bring, Rabbi Hershel Fogelman reached out to the Rebbe’s office for a blessing and guidance.
The response came quickly: “כדאי לסמוך על רבי שמעון בשעת הדחק” — “In a pressing situation, one can rely on Rabbi Shimon.”
Rabbi Mendel Fogelman recounted how, remarkably, at exactly 12:00 PM, just as the parade was set to begin, the clouds suddenly parted and the sun shone brightly over Worcester, allowing the celebration to proceed beautifully. The story added a deeply meaningful and emotional layer to this year’s celebration, connecting the joy of today’s community gathering with decades of Chabad’s enduring presence and leadership in Central Massachusetts.
A heartfelt thank you goes to our generous sponsors whose support helped make this incredible event possible: Creswell INC, 555 Properties LLC, Braman Chemical, Chris and Ellie Girardin, Elliot & Vivian Honig, Gary & Joan Gaffin, and the Tapper Family Foundation. Their partnership and commitment to Jewish community life are deeply appreciated.
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