Unique Safeguarding and Rescue Torah Scroll Dedicated in Kyiv’s KEDEM Community

In a powerful and deeply symbolic event, the KEDEM Jewish community of Kyiv, led by Rabbi Pinchas Vishedski, dedicated a unique restored Torah Scroll during the festival of Chanukah—an act intended to bring special protection, unity, and hope for salvation to the Jews of the community, Ukraine, and beyond.

The uniquely restored scroll, unlike a typical new Torah, has a remarkable story. Held for decades by a non-Jewish family, it required significant resources to redeem and return to Jewish hands.

“About a year and a half into the harsh state of emergency in Ukraine,” shared Rabbi Vishedski, “in light of the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe regarding the words of the prophet Daniel, “At that time your people will escape, everyone who is found written in the book,” we in the KEDEM community decided to do a special deed to protect, defend, rescue, and secure the Jews of the community, Ukraine, and the world—especially those in need of redemption from captivity.”

“We were searching for something deeper,” said Rabbi Vishedski, “and Divine Providence led us to this very special scroll that itself needed to be redeemed.”

The donation was made possible by the Vasilievsky family, who gifted the Torah in memory of the mothers in their family—women who, even under Communist oppression, raised proud Jewish homes and upheld Jewish life.

Held on the first night of Chanukah, the dedication ceremony gathered hundreds of community members and distinguished guests. The writing of the final letters of the scroll was followed by a heartfelt ceremony, traditional Hakafot dances, and the lighting of the first Chanukah candle.

“To begin the holiday of light and freedom,” Rabbi Vishedski remarked, “with such an event brought deep emotion and strength to our community.”

Among the honored guests were members of Ukraine’s parliament, the Head and Deputy Head of the Podilskyi District Administration, and many longtime friends of the community. They were hosted at the event by Member of Parliament Olga Vasylevska.

The evening concluded with a festive meal, joyful singing, and a strong sense of shared faith that the Torah—now restored and returned—will serve as a source of protection, strength, and redemption for all.