An Isolated Jewish Community Where Over 60% of The Community Keeps Kosher

In a small city in the north of Brazil lies an isolated Jewish community. While many similar communities have disappeared, this one has made its mark on the map. The city is Belem, Para, and today the community has over 60% of its members keeping kosher homes. This is one of the highest percentages for a city in South America, if not the Americas.

In celebration of 40 years of Beit Chabad Belem’s presence a special event was organized. The event brought back memories of the past and the future developments. There was an entrance hall filled with photos of different activities in each decade. Former students in the school were able to spot their names on lists of each period. This brought back many memories. Many people got emotional as they saw lists of deceased people that had taken part in Beit Chabad’s development and history.

People were honored for their contributions in shaping the community and a special orchestra played Moroccan styled music typical for the community.

This event was not a celebration of just individuals, but really one of a community. Today the community has over 70 % of it’s members keeping Shabbat and eating kosher. This is one of the highest percentages for a city in South America, if not the Americas.

Rabbi Disraeli Zagury together with his wife Sara Zagury have been directing this incredible formation all these years. As Rabbi Zagury says, “ It is not about getting large numbers, but getting everyone that you can to join.” The couple’s actions speak more than their words and what started as a small school with some Torah classes has grown to an incredible community.

Today the Beit Chabad continues to grow with the addition of Rabbi Shlomo Zagury teaching in the school and in the community. As well as Rabbi Shmuel Dorf helping in shechita and other projects. The future continues to be bright for this community, and a true example to others of perseverance.