Rabbi Howard Morrison

Well before the tragic events taking place in the Ukraine, JIAS (Jewish Immigrant Aid Services) designated this coming Shabbos as Refugee Shabbat. Truly, Jews and all humanity are focused on the refugee crisis, created by the Russians invading Ukraine.

We are all touched over the past week and a half by the forces of evil, feelings of sadness, admiration for bravery and heroism, and more.

In terms of Jews feeling for Jews, some of the following come to mind:

That Russians attacked the city of Uman, where the famous Rabbi Nachman of Bratzlav is buried, and where thousands upon thousands of Jews come to pray each year during the High Holy Days.

That a Russian missile was directed at Babi Yar - The memorial to the Shoah was destroyed; the place where some 100,000 Jews were slaughtered by the Nazis. Now, even their souls cannot rest in peace.

That Israel has sent Hatzala volunteers to Moldova on the border of Ukraine, where Israelis are helping ALL people, including a Palestinian from Gaza trying to return home.

That Ukrainian president Zelensky is truly comparable to Mordecai - Both standing up to the "Haman" of their day.

On this coming Shabbat, I will share some Talmudic legends associated with the holiday of Purim and their application to the events of our time in history.

I invite you to join us in person or via livestream for Refugee Shabbat.

Sincerely,

Rabbi Howard Morrison