First Ever NZ Jewish Service in Russian

Saturday 10 December

Temple Sinai Runs First Ever NZ Jewish Service in Russian

For the first time in New Zealand, Temple Sinai in Wellington ran a Jewish service in the Russian language last night. The Friday Night Sabbath service was well attended attracting about 50 people, many of whom were born in the former Soviet Union.

It was a dream come true for Libby Itskovitch, who led the service. "When I was growing up in Moldova, it was very dangerous to get together and celebrate Jewish festivals. It's wonderful to be able to pray with pride in my native language with my community. This is only possible in a free country like New Zealand" she said.

David Moskovitz, President of Temple Sinai was very happy with the response. "It gives us a chance to connect people to their Jewish roots who have not had this opportunity before. The NZ Jewish Community is a microcosm of the world Jewish scene - a multicultural community within a multicultural society." He says the given the success of last night's service, the Temple plans to run more Russian services in the future.

ENDS

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