The guests crowded the beautifully set tables in Rabbi Chaim Shmulevitz's tiny Jerusalem apartment. After celebratory l'chaims and impassioned singing, the world renown sage, the dean of the Holy City's Mirrer yeshiva, stood up to speak. The festive atmosphere immediately turned solemn. There was silence. "My dear Reb Avraham," the rabbi began warmly, "may you merit to grow in Torah and yiras Shamayim, in line with the aspirations of your pure heart. May you become a true son of Avraham Avinu [Abraham our forefather], after whom you are now named."