Last week, UJR-AmLat launched a transformative project that promises to bring Jewish communities in Northeast Brazil even closer together. The program, involving volunteers from Natal (RN), Recife (PE), and Fortaleza (CE), will run throughout the second semester of 2025 with the goal of promoting greater regional integration, fostering the sharing of experiences, and strengthening educational and spiritual practices.
The Jewish Center of Rio Grande do Norte will host the activities, which will include monthly educational visits. Under the supervision of Rabbi Kelita Cohen, UJR-AmLat’s Director of Content, and with the support of rabbinical student Ida Katz, the program brings together educators from Recife and Fortaleza, with coordination by André Liberman and direction by David Britva Beraha.
Inspiring Moments in Elul
The launch took place at the very beginning of Elul, a month dedicated to teshuvah and preparation for the Yamim Noraim. Highlights of the activities included:
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A vibrant community Kabbalat Shabbat, with special participation of the children;
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An in-depth study of the parashah during shacharit, in line with Elul’s spirit of introspection;
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An emotional Havdalah, marking the close of Shabbat;
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A night of selichot on Ponta Negra beach, where the prayers intertwined with the sound of the sea, creating a unique spiritual experience.
The Talmud teaches us: “Kol Israel arevim ze bazeh” — all of Israel is responsible for one another (Shevuot 39a). This principle of mutual responsibility guided every moment of the gathering and is the foundation of the project’s spirit: to strengthen local communities through unity and sharing.
Voice of the Potiguar Community
The president of the Jewish Center of Rio Grande do Norte, Roberto Bezerra, expressed his gratitude:
“For a long time, I shared Rabbi Kelita’s weekly parashah commentaries with the community, and in this Kabbalat Shabbat we had the immense pleasure of welcoming her in our synagogue. It was a Shabbat of radical amazement, as she herself inspired us in her commentary on Parashat Re’eh. We also welcomed seminarian Ida Katz, who led an interactive and engaging class for our children and teenagers. On behalf of the entire Jewish community of Natal, I thank you for this rich opportunity. You are always welcome!”
Future Paths
Upcoming gatherings will continue over the coming months at CIRN, promoting cultural, educational, and spiritual exchanges. UJR-AmLat reaffirms its commitment to Jewish vitality by building bridges of unity and strengthening every kehilah.
We hope this Elul inspires deep reflection and strengthens our collective bonds!
