Chabad Rabbi in Rome Prepares for High Holidays Amidst Security and Logistics

Rabbi Menachem Lazar, the Chabad emissary in Rome, is navigating a hectic schedule as he prepares for the upcoming High Holidays. A key challenge involves securing a venue large enough to accommodate the hundreds of Jewish visitors, including Israelis, tourists, and foreign students, who will be in Rome for Rosh Hashanah and lack local family arrangements. This year, after extensive efforts, a suitable hall has been found, but preparations are ongoing, including logistical coordination, ensuring kosher standards, and undergoing rigorous security checks with Roman police and local security officials.

Rabbi Lazar's center, operating for nine years, has become a focal point. Its lower floor houses the sole Judaica and book store in Italy, offering items like tefillin and mezuzot, with orders shipped throughout Italy and even from Milan. The store attracts not only religious Jews but also tourists and non-Jewish Italians interested in Jewish culture and history. Rabbi Lazar emphasizes a philosophy of mutual respect and spreading light, stating, "Not to fight (Fight), not to flee (Flight), but to illuminate (Light). To act out of love, without judging anyone and without complaining."

As the High Holidays approach, Rabbi Lazar's phone is constantly ringing with arrangements for holiday meals, kosher food supplies, and the distribution of religious items. The article concludes with Rabbi Lazar blowing the shofar, its sound resonating through Rome, symbolizing the enduring and welcoming presence of Judaism in the city that has witnessed significant Jewish history.