The Federation of Jewish Communities of the CIS –
“LUGANSK, Ukraine – An important event has occurred in the life of the Jewish community of Lugansk – the repatriation of four historic Torah scrolls, presented to the community by the Security Service of Ukraine. All four were used by Jews of Ukraine at the outset of the 20th century, one of which is of Sephardic origin and is considered to be particularly valuable. Such scrolls are critically needed for Jewish communities undergoing revitalization, since they suffer from a remarkable dearth of holy texts for religious services.
The transfer of the Torah scrolls took place following the recent signing of a decree by Ukraine President Victor Yuschenko, instructing state archives to return the Torah scrolls they hold back to Jewish communities. While archival authorities have not yet reacted to this, the Security Service of Ukraine in Lugansk has taken initiative to follow through.
“The presentation of these scrolls is evidence that Jewish life in our region, as all of Ukraine, has reached a new level. We see the state’s relationship with ethnic and religious minorities changing right before our eyes – for the better. All Lugansk Jews are grateful to the Security Service of Ukraine [for this action],” commented Aaron Vselyubskiy, the Chairman of the Jewish community of Lugansk.
This is great cause for celebration for local Jews. Now it is possible for Soifers to carry out work necessary to restore these scrolls for use in the celebration of Jewish life in this east Ukrainian region. “We are convinced that this is just the first step in [returning Jewish religious property]. We hope that shortly through the President’s decree, even the smallest of Jewish communities will be able to receive Torah scrolls – this would allow for the revival of traditional worship that is otherwise not possible due to the lack of Torah scrolls,” emphasized Aaron Vselyubskiy.
The Jewish community of Lugansk is a leading member of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine.”
The Federation of Jewish Communities of the CIS Online, http://www.fjc.ru/communities/news.asp?AID=603407&cid=85007&NewsType=80052 (accessed July 26, 2009).