The União Israelita do Vale da Região do Itajaí (UNIVRI) held a historic Shabbat in Blumenau, Santa Catarina, on June 27, 2025.
With great joy, we announce the outstanding success of the first institutional Shabbat held in the city, supported by the Union for Reform Judaism in Latin America (UJR). It was a moving, meaningful, and historic moment for the Jewish community in the region.
The state of Santa Catarina has, proportionally, the highest number of neo-Nazi cells in Brazil — 63, according to anthropologist Adriana Dias. For Jorge Crestani, president of UNIVRI, “this reality makes it all the more important to assert the Jewish presence in the region, as a voice opposing the rising wave of antisemitism.”
According to Ethel Scliar, religious director of the kehilá, “the presence and support of more than 40 families ensured the success of the gathering, filled with spirituality, participation, and music. Everyone helped make this Shabbat truly unique. It’s living proof that Reform Judaism is present where it is most needed, developing local leadership like Arthur Weiler, our representative in Blumenau.”
This initiative is part of UNIVRI’s strategic plan to hold similar events in other cities in the region in the coming months.
📬 Some Messages Received
“It was spectacular 🤌🏼 Thank you all and especially Arthur, who made this beautiful Kabbalat Shabbat possible! ❤️🥰☺️” (Benjamin Sicsu Colares)
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“Shabbat Shalom!
I must say how beautiful, organized, and soul-nourishing this Kabbalat Shabbat was. I’m sure Hashem saw the hearts of everyone present and the flame of a strong, united kehilá. Strong in its hospitality, in its commitment to bringing Judaism lovingly to Santa Catarina, and in preserving our values. Kudos to President Jorge, Marcelo Durmam, Ethel, Jacob, those who worked in the kitchen, and to the tzadik Arthur Weiler! Many brachot to all! May more Shabbatot like this bring us joy — in our Beit Haknesset or anywhere else!” (Agamenon Silva)
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“I also need to speak up about the Kabbalat Shabbat. They promoted it as special — and delivered ten times more than promised. It wasn’t just special, it was magnificent. Our congregation came together, shared sorrows — especially during the Kaddish — and celebrated joyfully. A kehilá growing more united each day. We’ll surely have many more moments like this. Thank you, UNIVRI!” (Daniel Goerlich)
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“Shabbat Shalom! I echo Daniel and Agamenon’s words… everything was beautiful. Congrats to all the organizers and thank you, on behalf of my family, to Arthur for creating such a special space. Your joy, Arthur, reminded me of my father when he brought our family together. Thank you and blessings!” (Vanessa Rabe)
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“Good afternoon, everyone. I’m still deeply moved by our Kabbalat Shabbat in Blumenau. I feel fulfilled and grateful for our kehilá’s strong presence at the event. I was surprised and honored by the Yiddish song composed by Marcelo and sung by our chazan Jacob. As one of the organizers, I thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for the kind words — publicly and in person. It was truly a historic and unforgettable milestone for our beloved UNIVRI. Shalom and have a great weekend.” (Arthur Weiler)
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“After so many moving messages, I feel deeply happy too. I enjoy quietly watching everything unfold and being part of this community — once just a dream — now a reality after many years of dedication. I truly believe the greatest accomplishment of a person is seeing their efforts take shape and watching others walk the path with them. My deepest thanks to Ethel Scliar, who moves mountains to share her wisdom and makes every Shabbat special.” (Jorge Crestani)
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“An unforgettable moment… Shabbat HaKodesh! Thanks to all the organizers, especially Mr. Arthur! ❤️🥰🇮🇱” (Vania and Marcone Nogueira)
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“My guests from Blumenau-SC, Peggy and Esther Golfeder, were amazed by the community’s energy. They thanked everyone for the chance to join this special Shabbat in a place they visited often as children, since their father was one of the club’s founders.” (Patrícia Muller)
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“Hi… I want to thank everyone for the incredible moments we shared during this Shabbat. When I think of Judaism, I feel peace. And when I’m with you, I feel at home. Thank you for the kindness and welcome. (Cibele Torquato)
