The Jews of Ukraine continue to demonstrate extraordinary determination and resilience as they celebrated the New Year. In many places the turnout at holiday observances and celebrations was much larger than expected; fortunately, most parts of the country enjoyed relative quiet throughout the holiday.
In Odessa, Rabbi Avraham Wolff, described the atmosphere as "truly remarkable!" With more than 180 people gathering for the ceremonial meal, "the place was so crowded that there was hardly any room to move, as if there were no ongoing conflict. And, hundreds of Jews joined us at the synagogue for all the holiday prayers."
In Zhaparozha, the day after the holiday, Rabbi Nachum Ehrentreu marveled at the community's response: "More than 450 people came, and everything was calm in the city, except for a few alarms. By the grace of G-d, everything went smoothly."
In the eastern city of Kharkov, Rabbi Moshe Moskovitz shared, with excitement: "G-d Almighty! On the first day, just before the morning service, four rockets fell, making a big noise. We went down to the shelter for a while and continued the prayers, and everything was successful. On the second night, at 12:30 a.m. four more rockets hit. The next day, for the blowing of the shofar the synagogue was packed, the best turnout in years, with more than 600 Jews in attendance!"
In the capital city of Kyiv, Rabbi Pinchas Vishedsky hosted the community for a holiday meal and prayers at a local ballroom. The beautiful surroundings, complete with holiday decorations, created a festive and uplifting atmosphere, greatly appreciated by people who have endured more than a year and half of ongoing conflict.
We are proud of the incredible work by our rabbis, staff and volunteers who organized and facilitated the many uplifting and meaningful holiday celebrations around the country. We are grateful to our supporters around the world who made it all possible, funding the food, special packages and more. With your help, we continue to save lives and restore hope.
