Like so many of you, we are following with tremendous concern, the terrible events that are unfolding in Ukraine.
I know that for many in our community this is deeply personal, painful and worrying, as they have relatives, close family members and many friends who are in the areas that are getting hit. We are thinking of all of you and your loved ones during these difficult times and are praying for peace.
Multiple people have reached out to us to use our contacts in Chabad in Ukraine to help relatives and friends who are trapped or alone. If we can be of help to anyone in any way please reach out to us. Currently, we are hearing that the Chabad Rabbis on the ground are urging everyone to stay at home and shelter in place, as the roads are not considered safe.
On a personal note, we have lots of colleagues and friends (from Israel, the US, Venezuela and elsewhere) who run the many dozens of Chabad Centers in Ukraine and we are praying for their safety. Over 200 Chabad Emissaries and their families have stayed behind to be with there communities during this very difficult time providing much-needed material aid, encouragement, and most importantly, spiritual strength and support. and are urging us to do our part to pray on their behalf and to pray for peace and do extra good deeds.
We pray for the safety of our Jewish brethren and the millions of others who are caught up in the fighting and pray for a peaceful resolution to this conflict. We pray that the people affected have the strength and resources to make it through this trying time and most of all, we pray for the day when “nations will beat their swords into plowshares … and not learn war anymore.”
No matter where you are, you can make a difference.
Put a few coins into a charity box (or swipe your credit card) for a worthy cause, don tefillin, light Shabbat candles before sunset this Friday, and know that you just introduced a very real point of goodness and kindness into a world that needs it more than ever.
Say a few heartfelt chapters of Psalms (especially Chapter 20), and know that you have introduced a dose of spiritual energy into a world that seems to be pulsating with negativity.
If you wish to donate to help refugees and many others impacted by the fighting you may do so at the Federation of Jewish Communties of Ukraine's website at https://fjc-fsu.org/
I have been in touch with Chabad colleagues in the Ukraine who have stayed behind and their communities are beyond grateful that they did not leave and have stayed put to help them weather this storm. They are also tremendously appreciative and grateful to know that all over the world we are praying for them and their communities as we pray for an end to all hostilities.
Wishing everyone a peaceful Shabbos and praying for peace.
Shabbat Shalom
Yisroel