Sukkot in Kishinev was marked this year by a wide range of prayers, programs and community events, bringing together children, teenagers, young adults, families and older members of the community around the mitzvot and special joy of the holiday.
Throughout Sukkot, many members of the community and visitors had the opportunity to fulfill the mitzvah of the Four Species. Children and adults took the lulav and etrog, recited the blessing and participated in one of the central mitzvot of the festival during programs held in the synagogue, sukkah and at community gatherings.
First-grade students at Chabad in Kishinev also took part in the celebrations with a special Simchat Beit Hashoeva program in the sukkah. Through songs, activities and a joyful holiday atmosphere, the children were able to experience the traditions of Sukkot in a warm and meaningful way.
The community’s main Simchat Beit Hashoeva celebration brought together families, young people and adults for an evening of music, dancing, children’s activities and festive joy. The strong sense of unity made the celebration one of the highlights of Sukkot in the community.
A special women’s gathering was also held in the Chabad sukkah. Participants heard words of inspiration, fulfilled the mitzvah of the Four Species and enjoyed time together in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Special programs were held for teenagers and young adults as well. CTeen participants gathered for “Sushi in the Sukkah,” combining the mitzvot of Sukkot with a hands-on sushi workshop and a social evening. CYP Moldova also hosted a festive night in the sukkah, bringing together Jewish young adults for sushi, music, conversation and new connections.
As Sukkot drew to a close, the community gathered at the synagogue for Hoshana Rabba prayers. The traditional Hoshanot, including the words “Hoshia et Amecha” — “Save Your people” — concluded the days of Sukkot with a shared prayer for the protection of the Jewish people and for a year of blessing and good news. The days of Sukkot once again reflected the vibrant Jewish life of Kishinev — from children’s programs and youth activities to prayer and community celebrations, bringing together Jews of every generation.
