Staten Island Community Voices Unwavering Support for Israel in Inspiring Rally
On October 15, 2023, the Staten Island community came together on the South Beach Boardwalk to express their unwavering support and solidarity with Israel. Organized by the Staten Island Council of Jewish Organizations (COJO), the Rally in Prayer, Love, and Unity served as a powerful testament to the strong bond between Staten Island and Israel.
The event, attended by approximately 2,000 people of all ages, provided a platform for the community to address the recent terror attack in Israel, which resulted in the loss of many lives and left hundreds injured and abducted as hostages. Scott Maurer, CEO and Executive Vice-President of COJO, spearheaded the gathering and stressed the importance of standing together in support of Israel.
Rabbis from various congregations in Staten Island led prayers and delivered inspirational speeches, highlighting the significance of unity and the power of prayer. They called for an end to the appeasement of terrorists and urged attendees to commit to acts of kindness, charity, and the observance of Torah and Mitzvots.
The rally not only featured heartfelt prayers and the singing of Psalms but also witnessed an incredible display of unity. Over 500 men put on Tefillin, while an equal number of women made a commitment to lighting Shabbos candles. Additionally, the crowd recited six chapters of Psalms together, and children recited the 12 verses of the Lubavitcher Rebbe.
Prominent individuals in the Staten Island community also expressed their support for Israel during the rally. Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon declared that there would be no tolerance for hate, anti-Semitism, and violence under his watch. Senator Andrew Lanza emphasized that the conflict in Israel is not just a dispute between two sides, but a battle between good and evil. He expressed his pride in standing with Israel during these challenging times.
The rally served as a demonstration of the Staten Island community’s united front and unwavering commitment to supporting Israel. It was an inspiring gathering that showcased the collective strength and love felt by the community for their brothers and sisters thousands of miles away.
As the Staten Island community continues to stand in solidarity with Israel, they hope that their prayers and supportive efforts will contribute to a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict. Their unwavering support and commitment to Israel serve as a beacon of hope in troubled times.
In the face of adversity, Staten Island unites in prayer, love, and solidarity, showing that their bond with Israel is unbreakable.
