In a heartwarming event, two significant circumcisions were celebrated at the Chabad of Poland Refugee Summer Camp in Warsaw, Poland. The ceremonies were led by Chabad of Poland Director Rabbi Shalom Ber Stambler and brought a sense of joy and excitement to the camp.
Among the two individuals receiving the circumcision, one was a highly skilled surgeon from Kryvyi Rih, an associate professor of Dnipro University, Ukraine, Shapovaliuk Volodymyr. He was recognized for his commendable efforts in providing medical aid to numerous wounded soldiers and civilians during the tumultuous times of the war in Ukraine.
The ceremony was made even more special with the presence of a distinguished Mohel, Rabbi Sternhal, who traveled all the way from Israel to take part in the occasion.
Rabbi Shalom Ber Stambler, inspired by the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, emphasized the importance of finding joy in performing mitzvahs, especially during these days of the 9 days. He reaffirmed that the act of circumcision is a powerful symbol of the covenant with Abraham, holding deep significance for every Jew. The event served as a beautiful reminder of unity and tradition within the refugee community in Poland.
The camp is a joint venture with Mosaic United and Israel’s Ministry for Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism. Tzvi Sperber of JRoots helped to coordinate the partnership on Chabad of Poland’s behalf.
Since the start of the Russian incursion into Ukraine, Chabad of Poland based in Warsaw has opened its doors to Ukraine’s Jewish community offering refuge, transportation, kosher food, medical aid, financial and material assistance, childcare, educational and social services, communal activities, and administrative and legal aid to tens of thousands displaced by the conflict. Since the start of the war, Chabad in Poland has seen its expenses rise by more than US$2 million. For more information or to contribute to relief efforts, please visit: www.saveajew.org.
