Putin Sends Rosh Hashanah Greeting to Russian Jewry

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a special Rosh Hashanah greeting to Russian Jewry, with the letter provided to Belaaz News by the office of Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar.

“Rosh Hashanah symbolizes the aspiration for moral and spiritual elevation, and brings believers the joy of connecting with their historical heritage,” Putin wrote.

The message comes as Jewish communities across Moscow are in the midst of extensive preparations for Yom Tov, with shuls being readied for thousands of mispallelim, shluchim distributing Rosh Hashanah packages, visiting Jewish inmates so they can hear the shofar, and assisting the elderly, lonely and hospitalized.

The community is also distributing food packages to families in need through its “Kimcha D’Tishrei” campaign.

In his letter, Putin also praised the Jewish community’s educational and charitable work and its efforts to strengthen families and educate the younger generation.