Ukraine War Shadows Jewish Communities' High Holy Day Preparations

Jewish communities in Eastern Europe are navigating the upcoming High Holy Days amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine. In Odessa, the "Or Avner" Jewish school, affiliated with Chabad, welcomed 127 orphans for the new school year. Many of these first-graders were born into the war, knowing only a reality of constant air raid sirens and seeking shelter. Despite this, the school celebrated the start of classes with music and dancing, aiming to provide the children with a sense of normalcy, security, and hope.

Meanwhile, the city of Uman is preparing for the traditional Rosh Hashanah pilgrimage to the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov. Tens of thousands of Hasidic Jews and Israelis are expected to visit. The "Breslov Union" has expressed gratitude to local Cherkasy Oblast authorities for their logistical and security cooperation during this complex period, presenting awards to the military governor and the head of the department of culture and history.

Across the globe, Jewish communities marked the beginning of the Selichot prayers, a penitential service preceding the High Holy Days. Major events connected communities in Russia and the United States, including services held in Moscow, Lyubavichi, and New York, highlighting a shared spiritual observance despite geographical distances and regional conflicts.