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A Unification Rally: Staten Island Community Issues an “Urgent Call to Action for Our Brothers & Sisters in Israel”
Edited by: TJVNews.com
The Jewish Community Center of Staten Island (JCC), nestled in the picturesque Seaview section of the borough, became the heart of an impassioned “Urgent Call to Action for Our Brothers and Sisters in Israel” on November 1, 2023. This heartfelt initiative, spearheaded by Rabbi Moshe Katzman, the Rabbi and Director of Chabad of Staten Island, received fervent support from the Staten Island Council of Jewish Organizations (COJO) and the JCC, uniting these influential organizations in a profound demonstration of solidarity.
Unity in Prayer and Song:
The evening’s central theme revolved around stirring speeches, heartfelt prayers, and soul-stirring musical performances. Rabbi Moshe Katzman set the tone with a poignant message: “[w]ords cannot capture the depth of the pain and sadness we all feel. But we, the Jewish People, stand united in our faith and resolve. With unwavering trust in G-d and our shared commitment to Torah, we find strength. Our appeal is not for material wealth but a spiritual one: to become better individuals, to embrace Torah, and to perform Mitzvoth. Through this positive transformation, we believe we contribute to Israel’s triumph over the challenges posed by Hamas.”
Rebbetzin Chani Katzman, the Co-Director of Chabad of Staten Island, noted the significant timing of these hostilities, which erupted on Simchat Torah, a day of celebration and renewal. She reminded all in attendance of the deep connection between the Jewish People and the Land of Israel. She emphasized the importance of unity, faith, and divine protection for the brave soldiers of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).
Gratitude and Acknowledgments:
Mendy Mirocznik, President of COJO, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Rabbi and Rebbetzin Katzman, describing them as the driving force behind this crucial gathering. He also extended his appreciation to Orit Lender, Executive Director of JCC, for their gracious partnership with COJO, emphasizing the importance of such collaborations in revitalizing and unifying the Jewish Community.
Mirocznik gave special recognition to Aryeh and David Pearlman, a dynamic father-son duo whose prayers, recitations, and musical presentations added an uplifting and inspirational dimension to the event. Their heartfelt talents earned them the title of “Sweet Singers of Israel.”
Furthermore, Mirocznik expressed appreciation for the presence of Chief Joseph Gulotta, NYPD Staten Island Borough Commander, and Inspector Timothy Wilson, Commanding Officer of Pct. 122, acknowledging their support during these challenging times for Israel. He thanked Ari Weiss, COJO Security Chairman and Coordinator of Staten Island Shomrim, for his work in coordinating security needs for the Jewish Community in collaboration with the NYPD during these trying times.
Mirocznik closed with a poignant prayer for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli conflict with Hamas. He emphasized the battle’s fundamental dichotomy of good versus evil and the dire consequences of Hamas’s actions. The community’s collective prayer extended to the safe return of hostages and divine protection for the IDF in their mission to defeat Hamas. The hope was for minimal casualties and a victory that heralds a future of peace and tranquility.
