‘Shabbat for Israel’ launched by Chief Rabbi

Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis has invited Jewish communities across the UK to dedicate a Shabbat next month to Israel.

It is expected that Shabbat for Israel, on March 8 to 9, will be amongst the UK’s largest coordinated displays of support for the people of Israel since the terror attacks. It will provide an opportunity for communities to welcome a variety of speakers and to get involved the many solidarity projects launched in recent weeks, said organisers.

These include the Board of Deputies of British Jews  “adopt a hostage” campaign, donating sifrei torah to Israel, community twinning initiatives and the “Taste of Memory” campaign, which will tell the story of lives lost on October 7 through their favourite recipes.

Announcing the initiative on Tuesday, Chief Rabbi Mirvis said: “In these exceptionally trying times, our communities are united by our deep connection to Israel and our profound desire to see the Jewish State exist in peace and security. As part of our global Jewish “mishpocha” [family], so many of us identify strongly with the challenges Israel currently faces and are keen to express our love and solidarity with our brothers and sisters there in a meaningful way.