Defiant Display of Jewish Resilience: Thousands of Rabbis Pose For Iconic Group Photo
At the world’s largest gathering of Jewish leaders, thousands of rabbis take part in an iconic tradition: the annual group portrait, a powerful display of Jewish pride and resilience.
Rabbis from 111 countries and over 4,000 communities stand shoulder to shoulder in front of Chabad-Lubavitch World Headquarters, representing Jewish life in every corner of the globe. In a year when many Jews feel isolated, the image of these committed leaders encourages Jews everywhere to stand taller and remain firm in their identity and faith. This year’s conference coincides with the completion of Kaddish, the mourner’s prayer recited for eleven months, for the victims of last December’s attack at Bondi Beach.
“This year’s conference comes at a time when Jewish people worldwide need reassurance and hope. Less than a year ago, we lost sixteen precious lives in the horrific attack on the Chanukah celebration at Bondi Beach. Yet the very next night, menorahs were lit in public squares around the world, brighter and in greater numbers than before,” says Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Director of the International Conference of Chabad Emissaries. “Throughout our history, in the face of every adversity, the Jewish people have answered darkness with more light. As the global Jewish support system, Chabad Emissaries have been on the frontlines, addressing the needs of their communities nonstop. The photo sends a message: the Jewish people are alive, strong, proud, and we aren’t going anywhere.”
Credit: Itzik Belenitzki/Kinus.com
