There’s No Place Like Home

As we reported last week, two Torahs handed over to JDC by the New York District Attorney were to make their way to new homes in Sofia, Bulgaria and Belgrade, Serbia. Timing is everything and government representatives in New York for the UN General Assembly enthusiastically offered to personally escort the Torahs back to Europe.

Thousands of miles later, after traveling from New York with the Bulgarian Prime Minister, the scroll for Sofia’s Jewish community is now safely nestled in the synagogue’s ark in time for Simchat Torah on Friday. The Torah for Serbia’s Jewish community is currently en route with the country’s Foreign Minister.

It’s said that a Torah is an etz hayim—a tree of life—to all who hold it dear. We are positive that the Jews of Sofia and Belgrade will ensure that these newly planted trees will develop deeps roots and strong branches for generations to come. Chag Sameach!