Kyiv's Chief Rabbi: Synagogue Remains Open Amidst Constant Missile Attacks
Despite over two and a half years of continuous missile attacks and air raid sirens, Kyiv's Chief Rabbi, Yonatan Markovitch, a Chabad emissary, has vowed that the city's central synagogue and Chabad center will not close.
In an interview with Kikar HaShabbat, Rabbi Markovitch described the daily reality of living under constant threat, with missile interceptions occurring frequently and debris falling in nearby streets. He emphasized that the synagogue serves not only as a physical shelter from bombings but also as a spiritual refuge for the Jewish community, which includes elderly individuals unable to evacuate and families with nowhere else to go.
The rabbi highlighted a significant spiritual awakening within the community, with many Jews who were previously distant from their heritage now seeking to connect. He noted that individuals are coming to the synagogue to put on tefillin, learn Hebrew, and seek meaning and protection. The community's aid center continues to distribute tons of food and medicine monthly, and provides generators and heating equipment due to damage to the local power grid.
Rabbi Markovitch also maintains close ties with Ukrainian authorities, including President Volodymyr Zelensky, government ministers, and the mayor of Kyiv. He is recognized for his efforts in protecting the Jewish community's rights and preventing antisemitism, with officials viewing the Jewish community as a stabilizing force providing humanitarian aid.
Looking ahead to the High Holy Days, Rabbi Markovitch urged Jews worldwide to appreciate their moments of peace and Torah study, and to increase in unconditional love. He expressed hope for a year of redemption for all of Israel, both in Ukraine and globally.
