Remembering Rabbi Elyakim Getzel Rosenblatt is a good place to start. Here at Yeshiva Kesser Torah, his legacy lives on. Founded in 1965, Yeshiva Kesser Torah began as a small outreach yeshiva. Rabbi Rosenblatt, a student of Torah giants, wanted to spread Torah to all Jews.
He started teaching non-religious students in Corona. His students encouraged him to establish Yeshiva Kesser Torah. In the 1970s, the yeshiva opened in Briarwood near Queens Main Street. The dormitory opened in 1980.
In 1994, Yeshiva Kesser Torah moved to Kew Gardens Hills to reach more people. Today, it stands as a beacon of Torah learning. Rabbi Rosenblatt’s classes are available even now. Over 500 are accessible.
Yeshiva Kesser Torah earned the nickname “minyan factory”. Throughout the afternoon and late into the night, people gather. They pray Mincha and Maariv.
Shabbat at Kesser Torah is special. Friday night Kabbalat Shabbos and Maariv services begin the holy day. Shacharis follows in the morning. A small Kiddush meal brings people together. In the afternoon, two Mincha services take place. Shalosh Seudos is the third meal and then Maariv concludes Shabbat.
The yeshiva’s impact extends beyond its walls. Yeshiva Kesser Torah distributes “Shmuessin” sheets. These Parshas Hashavua sheets reach communities across the United States.
Rabbi Rosenblatt produced dedicated Bnei Torah. These young men inspire their own communities. The light of Torah and Mussar continues to burn brightly. Its warmth guides all who connect with Yeshiva Kesser Torah.
The Yeshiva offers minyanim throughout the day and evening. There are outreach classes and Divrei Torah. Special events mark the year. The Annual Journal Breakfast in May sees participation from many Rabbanim.
In November, the Annual Journal Melava Malka features Rabbi Rosenblatt’s Nigunim. Live music accompanies the singing. Carlebach style davening happens every Friday evening of Shabbos Mevorchim.
Yeshiva Kesser Torah was a Yeshiva Gedolah. It served both novices and advanced Talmidei Chachomim. It is known for its achievements in Kiruv Rechokim. This means bringing Jews closer to their heritage.
Harav Elyakim G. Rosenblatt’s Shiurim are available on Torahanytime.com. They can also be heard by phone. The number is 718-395-2440. Press 1-1-30 for Shiurim and 1-4-32 for Chassidic Gems.
Rabbi Shmuel Zucker now guides Yeshivas Keser Torah. He builds upon Kehilla Kedosha Beis Shlomo’s success. The yeshiva provides a warm environment for growth. Learning is on a high level. It emphasizes both Iyun and B’kiyus.
Yeshiva Kesser Torah stands as a testament to Rabbi Rosenblatt’s vision. It continues to inspire and educate. It serves as a vital center for Jewish life in Queens and beyond.