By COLlive reporter
Ukrainian Lubavitch businessman and activist Raphael Rutman hosted his annual Chanukah party and Menorah lighting in the Intercontinental hotel in Kiev.
“No one misses this event,” Rutman noted about the affair organized with the help of his wife Devorah and Rabbi Meir Stambler, Director of the Federation of Jewish Communities in Ukraine.
“People cancelled trips and various meetings to take part in this prestigious event that concludes the days of Chanukah.”
Among the attendees were the following diplomats to the country – U.S. Ambassador John F. Tefft, United Kingdom Ambassador Simon Smith, Israeli Ambassador Reuven Din El and Swiss Ambassador Christian Schoenenberger.
The American Ambassador noted that this was not the first Menorah lighting ceremony he is attending and that he hopes that Newton, CT will have brighter days.
Honored with lighting the Menorah was member of the Ukrainian Parliament Lev Mirimsky who said the blessing with much emotion.
Also there was the newly elected parliament member Vitali Klitschko, leader of the UDAR party and a former professional boxer and the reigning WBC heavyweight champion.
The event began with a prayer for the victims and families of the Sandy Hook elementary school shooting in Newton, Connecticut.
The meal was catered by Mendy’s catering of Dnepropetrovsk.
Я рад за Вас!
Yesher koach you do a great job and make the rebbe so proud. May you continue to see much success and bring much light to your corner of the world.
Rabbi Mayer Stambler is sacrificially commited to his Shlichus & therefore has tremendous success.May he & his family continue to be glowing beacons ol light for the masses..
B”H for the Englishman and his family…brings light and happiness to the cold nights in Ukraine.
Mayer u r a tzadik
the Food was all made by Devorah Rutman, the Sushi however, came from Mendy’s in Dnepropetrovsk
Your friends in California
Yossi glick looking shabbay!
your friend in miami
I said it last time (his last artical) and I’say it again.
Him and his wife are amazing hosts and have exceptional hachnosos orchim.
Raphael, you make the Rebbe proud! Halevay oif ale baaley Batim gezogt! May your wonderful parents continue to shep nachas from you and all your family.
An Aussie Fan