Minutes after a torrential downpour, over 1,000 children from Lakewood and the surrounding areas gathered on Lag B’omer afternoon for an event of Torah, Tefillah and Tzedakah.

Other highlights of the program included a master storyteller, a puppet show and intermittent singing led by Benny Friedman and of course delicious refreshments for all.

In the aftermath of the terrible tragedy in Meron, the event took on a greater urgency and significance in fostering a spirit of Achdus and Emuna for all in attendance.

The program started with Pesukim of Torah and Tehillim led by children of the various mosdos chinuch and Benny Friedman led the crowd with the singing of “Vihinei Hashem” , “A Yid” and “Acheinu Kol Beis Yisrael”.

Afterwards, master storyteller R’ Ari Glick and other live actors enthralled the crowd with a gripping story of the power of emuna and tefillah entitled “The Power of Tehillim.” Then there was more Pesukim and singing followed by a delightful and educational puppet show entitled “Overcoming the Yetzer Hara.”

Every participant entered a raffle to win sets of seforim and a grand prize of 2 plane tickets to Eretz Yisroel.

In conclusion, Benny Friedman led the crowd in Zemiros of Lag B’Omer. “Bar Yochai”, “Amar Rabbi Akiva” and “Vi’amartem Ko Lechai” wrapping up the memorable Lag B’omer event in a most appropriate spirit.

To quote one of many emails received by the organizers: “Thank you so much for providing a kosher entertainment venue today! My children really enjoyed the singing, storytelling and puppet show along with the treats that were given! Thank you so much for making this a special Lag Ba’Omer!”

A special thank you to LCSW, Judaica Square, MIZ Construction, Fisher Roofing and many other Lakewood businesses for their sponsorship of this event.