November 2025 newsletter

United Congregation of Israelites

SHA'ARE SHALOM REMEMBRANCE SERVICE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2025

We invite you to join us this Friday, November 14, for a special Remembrance Day Service — a time to reflect, to remember, and to pray for peace.

“Lest we forget.”These words call us not only to remember those who gave their lives in war, but to ensure that the lessons of the past guide our hearts and actions today.

In a world still shaken by conflict and unrest, and as our own island faces the trials of natural disaster, we come together to renew our shared commitment to compassion, justice, and healing.

In Jewish tradition, remembrance zachor is not passive — it is a sacred act of conscience. Through memory, we affirm the value of every life and the hope for a world redeemed.

Let us remember together — in prayer, in music, and in solidarity.

“May the memory of the righteous be a blessing.”

TIKKUN OLAM

REPAIR OF THE WORLD

Israel's Ambassador to Jamaica, His Excellency Aslan Abu Rukun meets Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health. Benjamin Hodara, Honorary Consul to Israel, joins in the talks with the government regarding humanitarian relief efforts. The mission aims to complement Jamaica’s national response by providing specialised medical expertise and technical assistance in affected areas. “The delegation is led by Dr Joseph Mendlovic, deputy director-general of Israel’s Ministry of Health, and Professor Ofer Marin who is internationally recognised for his expertise in disaster medicine and humanitarian field operations."The 40-member Israeli medical delegation with Benji Hodara ready to join forces with our health professionals.

In this time of rebuilding and renewal, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the people of Israel, the Jewish organisations working on the ground here in Jamaica, and to His Excellency Ambassador Raslan Abu Rukun, and the Israeli Consul in Jamaica, Benjamin Hodara for their leadership and compassionate support during this challenging time.

Your presence, guidance, and generosity have brought more than supplies — you have brought HOPE. In communities where homes and livelihoods were lost, your assistance has reminded us that we are not alone; that across oceans and traditions, our shared humanity binds us together.

From emergency aid and medical support to simple acts of kindness, every gesture has strengthened our spirit of RESILIENCE. As we continue the work of recovery, we hold deep gratitude for your solidarity and for the enduring values of TIKKUN OLAM — the call to repair the world.

With appreciation and blessings,The United Congregation of Israelites

The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) providing immediate humanitarian aid to communities affected in Black River.

THANK YOU

... to over 60 Israeli nationals and others providing relief here in Jamaica:

• Doctors & nurses from Israel's Ministry of Health

• Aid distribution from CADENA

• Search & recovery and bulk aid distribution from Project Dynamo

• Doctors & social workers from NATAN

• Professionals for child protective services & mental health from IsraAid

• Relief aid & long term recovery efforts from JDC

1 month & 4 days 

until Hanukkah 2025

Hanukkah begins on December 14

Copyright © 2025 United Congregation of Israelites, Kingston, Jamaica, All rights reserved.

PLEASE NOTE: We send these emails to our congregation and our community and to other interested individuals. Please share with others you know may be interested.

Our mailing address is:

United Congregation of Israelites, Kingston, Jamaica

92 Duke Street

Kingston 0

Jamaica