RCV Israel Solidarity Conference

Wednesday 5 June 2024

28 Iyar 5784

RCV Israel Solidarity Conference

In a profound gesture of unity and support, a delegation of 26 Rabbis and Rebbetzins from the Rabbinical Council of Victoria (RCV) is set to undertake a momentous journey to Israel in late July. This mission serves to express our unwavering solidarity with Israel and to engage in a conference dedicated to enhancing our advocacy and pastoral care skills.

Throughout this journey, we will have the distinct honour of meeting with wounded individuals, families of hostages, and organisations directly affected by the ongoing conflict. These deeply moving encounters will provide us with a greater understanding of the heartbreaking realities faced by those in Israel, allowing us to reaffirm our steadfast commitment to stand by them. Furthermore, we will connect with exceptional volunteer organisations that are tirelessly working to support those in need, exemplifying the spirit of resilience and community.

RCV President, Rabbi Moshe Kahn, remarked, “This is an historic moment as rabbis and rebbetzins embark on a mission to Israel, demonstrating our unwavering support and love for Israel and its people. This collective effort is vital in fostering 'achdus' (unity) within the rabbinate and the broader community.”

Solidarity Conference organiser and RCV Executive Director, Rachel Mihalovich, highlighted, “This extraordinary conference showcases the profound dedication of Melbourne’s orthodox leadership. Alongside expressing our steadfast solidarity, the rabbis and rebbetzins will delve into the intricate and complex issues surrounding our people’s existential struggle for our homeland. This journey will equip participants with enhanced skills to better serve their communities upon their return.”

By embarking on this mission, the RCV delegation aims to strengthen the bonds of unity and support between Melbourne’s Jewish community and our brothers and sisters in Israel, reflecting our shared commitment to the enduring strength and resilience of our people.

The RCV is proud that the following participants will be joining this extraordinary conference

• Rabbi Mendy Ajzenszmidt - South Caulfield Hebrew Congregation

• Rabbi Jonny Brull - Mizrachi Beit Midrash

• Rebbetzin Menucha Cooper – Chabad Malvern

• Rabbi Yitze Engel - Chabad Bentleigh

• Rabbi Yaakov and Rebbetzin Sara Glasman - St Kilda Hebrew Congregation

• Rabbi Moshe and Rebbetzin Dina Kahn - Daminyan

• Rabbi Shmuel and Rebbetzin Rivki Karnowsky - Central Shule

• Rabbi Benji Kessly - Sassoon Yehuda Sephardi Synagogue

• Rabbi Dr. Alan and Rebbetzin Via Kimche - Mizrachi

• Rabbi Shmuel Lesches - Young Yeshivah Shule

• Rabbi Motty Liberow - Hamerkaz Shelanu

• Rabbi Shlomo and Rebbetzin Rivki Nathanson - Melbourne Hebrew Congregation

• Rabbi Yoseph Nerenberg - Beit Shlomo – Gary Smorgon House

• Rabbi Daniel Rabin - Caulfield Hebrew Congregation

• Rabbi Yisroel Raskin - Chabad Carnegie

• Rabbi Boruch and Rebbetzin Nechama Shapiro - Souper Shule

• Rabbi Menachem Stern - Shnei Ohr Chabad Nth Caulfield

• Rabbi Alex Tsykin - Brighton Hebrew Congregation

• Rebbetzin Miriam Chava Wainstein – Jewish Care Carnegie

• Executive Director, Rachel Mihalovich