The air is buzzing; the room feels alive. Voices rise; youthful exclamations blend with deep, rumbling ones as they debate the texts sitting open before them.
It’s 11:00 AM on a Sunday, and the Zal of Chovevei Mesivta is filled with fathers and sons. The students are spending their morning learning, sharing, and bonding with their fathers.
Now in the program’s 10th year, Chovevei Mesivta began its weekly father-son learning initiative to promote parent involvement, encourage learning, and give their students the opportunity to connect with family while learning at an individualized pace.
Fathers and grandfathers of all ages and backgrounds come in to learn each week. An electrician, a rabbi, and a programmer sit side-by-side, learning with their sons and becoming immersed in the Yeshiva’s dynamic atmosphere.
From table to table, fathers and sons are learning the Gemora of the week, each at their own pace and level. Some learn other subjects as well. There’s something for everyone.
“We wanted to bridge the learning disconnect between school and home,” explained Rabbi Minsky. “Our students learn and study every day in school, but what happens when they go home? This program helps fuse the learning aspect of school and home life together, so that the boys feel comfortable and confident to learn anywhere, at any time.”
“I look forward to this hour all week,” said Yossi K. “We all want to be able to learn with our sons every day of the week, but life catches up with us and it’s not always possible. Learning at Chovevei Mesivta is an hour each week that’s blocked off my schedule; for this hour, it’s just me and my son. Nothing exists for me outside of this room.”
The father-son learning also gives fathers the opportunity to speak with their sons’ teachers, and become further involved in their sons’ education.
“It’s beautiful to see how the boys become alive with their learning,” said one Maggid Shiur. “They’re excited to learn with their fathers and practice their skills, and their fathers are excited to watch their sons become passionate and engaged with their learning. It’s a special experience, one that embraces Torah study and fosters a connection between father and son.
“The inspiration, unity, and growth that’s accomplished in the one-hour program has proven invaluable time and again, with an impact that remains with our students long after they graduate.”
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Im here every week and its truly a good way to bond through torah