Future Russian Officer Celebrates Bar Mitzva

MYTISCHI, Russia –- The Jewish community of Mytischi celebrated an important occasion – not only in the life of the community, but of all future military persons of Jewish background. This week, two young men underwent their Bar Mitzva to mark their coming of age. Already active in community affairs for a number of years already, this ceremony confirmed Alexander Barkovskiy’s and Oleg Tkacha’s commitment to living a Jewish life.

Not uncommon for local Jews to have their Bar Mitzva, this occasion stands out. “Oleg Tkacha’s Bar Mitzva is worthy of attention,” explained Chief Rabbi of Mytischi Aaron Gurevich, who is also the Rabbi of the Military Branch of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia. “This year, Oleg began his studies as a Cadet. His family takes part in community life and Oleg began his Jewish studies at the Sunday school at the age of six.” He hopes to enter Military College in five years to become an officer, underlining his intent to uphold his national traditions.

The Military Branch of the FJC Russia will be expanding its work with Jewish youth who have chosen to pursue a career in the military, including students at military colleges and cadets. The project will begin in the Moscow Region, with experience to be passed on to other regions. This will include lectures on the Jewish lifestyle and national traditions at the Military University. In addition to reaching young Jews, these courses will include future psychologists, sociologists and other specializations. Now, FJC is busy getting the word out about this essential project.

Those Jewish students and cadets completing the set of lectures will also have the opportunity to visit Israel. The path towards that day has just begun for at least one future officer on this important day, when two young men were called to the Torah and put on Tefillin for the first time in their lives while Jewish community of Mytischi proudly welcomed two young men into the realm of adulthood.