New Sefer Torah Celebrated in Zaporizhzhia After Rocket Strike

Just a day after a rocket strike landed not far from their shul and Jewish community center, the Jewish community of Zaporizhzhia took to the streets with a lively parade to celebrate the completion of a new Sefer Torah.

In the midst of Sukkos, the Jewish community of Zaporizhzhia celebrated the arrival of a new Torah scroll with hundreds of community members, guests, and dignitaries gathering to mark the special occasion. The event featured a lively parade through city streets, singing and dancing within the shul, and a festive meal in the community’s large sukkah.

“Especially during these tense times,” said Rabbi Nachum Ehrentreu, the community’s rabbi and Shliach to the region, “with rocket attacks threatening daily life, it is deeply moving to see hundreds of Jewish people—men, women, and children—come together in honor of the Torah, reconnecting to their Jewish roots without fear.”

The event planned well in advance, took place just a day after a rocket strike landed less than a kilometer from the shul and Jewish community center. Miraculously, there were no casualties, although windows shattered and frames were dislodged. “Thank G-d, no one was hurt,” Rabbi Nachum added. “The community’s joy was overwhelming, filled with resilience and strong faith that better days of peace and redemption are near. The new Torah Scroll is dedicated to the merit, safety, and security of the Jews of Zaporizhzhia.”