This year, Dr. Katz decided to focus on truly fulfilling the mitzvah of “v’ahavtem es hager— and you shall love the convert”
But his devotion to the public has not encroached on his commitment to individual growth. Dr. Katz maintains a “list” of mitzvos he hasn’t yet fulfilled and places single-minded focus on ensuring that they are. Two years ago, he set out to fulfill the mitzvah of kesivas sefer Torah, and scores of grandchildren came to celebrate its completion. But this year, Dr. Katz noted that a mitzvah he has never truly fulfilled is “ve’ahavtem es hager — and you shall love the convert.”
And so Dr. Katz set out on a tenacious campaign to locate a ger of whom he could be of service. He eventually was introduced to Aliza, a woman from Ohio who had converted to Judaism. Aliza became a frequent guest at the Katz home, coming for Shabbos and Yom Tov meals. When Aliza began dating a young man from Brooklyn, Dr. Katz had his grandchildren do the necessary research to ensure he would be a suitable fit for her.
In July, Aliza got engaged and Dr. Katz, of course, is actively involved in the upcoming wedding’s details.
And there, with Hashem’s help, he will dance at the simchah of a newly married couple — and a mitzvah he waited so many years to do will be fulfilled to its highest degree.
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