Despite ongoing turbulence in Israel and Jewish communities worldwide, thousands of Jews from across the globe are expected to converge on Krakow, Poland, this Friday, Rosh Chodesh Tammuz, for the yahrtzeit of the Maor V’Shemesh, Rav Kalonymus Kalman Epstein ztz”l, one of the early leaders of the Chassidic movement. His kever, located in Krakow’s historic Jewish cemetery, has long been revered as a place of salvation—especially in matters of parnassah.
Each year, large groups travel from Europe, the United States, and even Israel to be at the tziyun of the Maor V’Shemesh on the day of his hilulah. This year, due to widespread flight cancellations from Israel—including a canceled charter—many Israelis have been forced to cancel their plans. In response, organizers have established a free “kvittel service,” allowing people to submit names for prayer remotely.
The Maor V’Shemesh left behind a powerful promise: “Anyone who davens with the tzibbur is guaranteed to have their livelihood provided generously every single day.” This incredible assurance has drawn countless Jews to strengthen their commitment to tefillah b’tzibbur, particularly on the hilulah, when many travel to Krakow to renew their dedication and daven fervently for personal and communal salvation.
Travel agencies have reported a dramatic spike in interest from Jewish communities across Europe and North America. The surge in participation is especially notable this year, given the global challenges facing Klal Yisroel.
To accommodate those unable to travel, a dedicated system was set up both in Israel and abroad to accept kvitlach. These will be placed at the tziyun and mentioned during the special minyan that will be held there. Many participants are including a written commitment to strengthen their tefillah b’tzibbur, in keeping with the Maor V’Shemesh’s legacy.
Names can be submitted via email to: maorvshemesh@gmail.com. All names received will be printed and read at the kever on the day of the yahrtzeit.
Organizers also confirmed that the central hilulah seudah, attended by rabbanim and chassidim near the tziyun, will take place as usual in a large tent erected at the site.
{Matzav.com Israel}