What began as a simple meeting during a YAHAD youth seminar in Moscow became something lasting — a Jewish home, a family, and a lifelong connection. During one unforgettable evening on a boat along the Moscow River, a young student approached Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar to share his story and ask for help proposing marriage. Moments later, with the encouragement and warmth of Mr. Eli Horn, the couple’s future began to take shape.

During the recent YAHAD journey to Brazil, participants watched the moving story of Shneur and Esther Zutiev, a young couple whose lives were deeply shaped by their encounter with Mr. Eli Horn. The film follows their journey from discovering Jewish life through YAHAD programs and the Or Avner school network, to the emotional proposal that brought them together as husband and wife.

Deeply moved by the moment, Mr. Eli Horn immediately offered to support the couple’s wedding and remained closely connected to the family over the years. Today, the couple lives in Israel with their children, and named their second son Eli, in honor of the man whose kindness helped build their family.