Haredi Community in Afula Struggles After Sudden Death of Beloved Rabbi

Weeks after the sudden passing of Rabbi Mordechai David Stieglitz, a cherished teacher at the "Derech Emet" Talmud Torah in Afula, the local Haredi community remains in deep shock and mourning. Rabbi Stieglitz, who died unexpectedly at a young age, left behind a widow and nine children, eight of whom are unmarried, as well as over 20 students who were deeply connected to him. The family is struggling to cope with the loss of their primary provider and spiritual leader.

Rabbi Stieglitz was a central figure in the community, serving as the head of the "bein hazmanim" yeshiva, a prayer leader, and a revered teacher for generations of students from Givat HaMoreh, Afula, and Afula Illit. His absence has left a significant void both in his family and the wider community.

In response, the community quickly organized an internal fundraising campaign, requesting each family to contribute at least 50 to 100 shekels monthly for three years. However, recognizing the limited financial means of many community members, especially those who are full-time Torah scholars, and the urgent needs of the large family, Rabbi Avraham Halevi Lifshitz, the rabbi and head of the rabbinical court of Kfar Gideon and the Jezreel Valley, issued a rare public letter. He praised Rabbi Stieglitz's exemplary character and called on all generous donors in Israel to support the family, describing contributions as a "great and rare mitzvah" and a "true salvation" for the widow and children.

The local charity fund, Kuppat Ha'Ir, has established a dedicated emergency fund for the family, emphasizing that while the community has done its part, the broader public must now step in to ensure the family’s dignified livelihood. Rabbi Lifshitz blessed donors with good fortune, grace, and prosperity.

The community continues to seek urgent assistance to help the family rebuild their lives after this tragic loss.