Hundreds of members of the Moscow Jewish community gathered at the central Marina Roscha Synagogue to observe the Tisha B’Av fast day with heartfelt prayers and deep emotion, led by Russia’s Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar.
The commemoration began Saturday night, as the fast coincided this year with Motzei Shabbos. Dressed in Shabbos attire, a large crowd filled the shul to recite Maariv, transitioning from the peace of Shabbos into mourning over the destruction of the Beis Hamikdash.
Following the evening prayer, Rabbi Lazar read Megillas Eicha aloud in the traditional mournful tune passed down through the generations. The congregation then recited the Kinnos, expressing heartfelt yearning for the Geulah Shleima—the complete redemption.
On Sunday morning, davening resumed with emotion as Shacharis was held in multiple minyanim beginning at dawn. Later in the day, the community observed the ancient Jewish custom of collecting tzedakah on a fast day, in keeping with the teaching of Chazal: “Agra d’taanisa – tzedkata”—“The merit of a fast is the charity given during it.” All proceeds were dedicated to local charity funds assisting large families, those in need, and individuals without support.
As the fast neared its close, preparations were underway to ensure a dignified and nourishing meal for the hundreds who would soon break their fast. Under the direction of the dedicated team behind “Grisha’s Zimmer”—a communal initiative based at the shul—hot, quality dishes were carefully prepared by devoted women and volunteers who viewed their efforts as a true mission of holiness.
After the fast concluded, Rabbi Mordechai Weisberg, the Shliach and director of the community, led Havdalah. The congregation then sat down together to enjoy a warm meal, uplifted by a sense of unity and shared purpose—another brick in the spiritual rebuilding of the Beis Hamikdash, may it be speedily in our days.
Photo credit: Mivaser Tov News – Moscow
