The Rambam writes: "It is better for a person to emphasize giving ‘Gifts to the Poor’ in a generous and magnanimous fashion, rather than to emphasize the ‘Sending of Portions’ or his own lavish Seudas Purim for there is no greater or more praiseworthy form of celebration than that of celebrating in a manner that gladdens the hearts of the needy, the widowed, the orphaned, and the friendless stranger. One who gladdens the heart of the unfortunate is compared to the Divine Presence, as it is said (Isaiah: 57:15), to revive the spirit of the downtrodden, and to restore the heart of the broken." 

One must distribute Matanos L’Evyonim (gifts to the poor) to at least two needy individuals. If you'd like to perform this mitzvah through Rabbi Silber and Suburban Orthodox, click here and select Matanos L'Evyonim from the dropdown. 

The Torah in Shemos states: “V’asu Li Mikdash v'shachanti b'sochum; Make for Me a Temple and I will dwell within you.” Although we have not yet merited the Third Temple, we are incredibly fortunate to have a beautiful, holy and incredibly special מקדש מעט (small Temple) ; our own Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim. We are a strong Shul of over 380 families made up of all ages and backgrounds. We are a Shul that takes special pride in creating a meaningful atmosphere for prayer and Torah learning.

We offer multiple opportunities for Shiurim, classes and lectures, social connections as well as extensive youth programming and community chessed. The State of Israel has a special place in our communal heart. We see its miraculous formation just 60 short years ago as the dawn of the Messianic era. Ultimately, we believe that what makes our people unique is the ability to forge a special and unique bond with הקדוש ברוך הוא and our Shul provides us with multiple opportunities to accomplish this noble objective.

Until the day when we are blessed with the Third Temple, we will continue to use our מקדש מעט as our portal of connection to God and to each other. And as we embark on building a new home for our holy work, we hope you will join us.

Kol Tuv,
Rabbi Shmuel Silber

Building plans & dedications >