Jewish Community of Larissa Celebrates Reopening of Synagogue June 13-15

Ribbon cutting ceremony at the newly restored Synagogue of Larissa, Greece

The Jewish Community of Larissa announced the schedule of events organized for June 13-15 to celebrate the inauguration of the recently renovated ‘Ets Hayim’ Synagogue of Larissa.

The Jewish Community of Larissa was and continues to be the largest Jewish community in Thessaly and the third largest in Greece, after the ones in Athens and Thessaloniki.

Sevasti (Sevi) Boutos responded to an email from Professor Emeritus Asher J. Matathias, President, 5T Lodge, B’nai B’rith Woodmere, NY, which he shared with The National Herald, about the reopening of the synagogue: “I was so touched to receive the news about the reopening of the Ets Hayim Synagogue in Larissa! It’s a momentous occasion that honors such great heritage and signifies a renewal of faith and community.”

The Rabbi of Larissa parading the Sefrei Torah during the rededication ceremony

“It must be a joyous time for all involved, and I know that it will strengthen the bonds of the Jewish community, both locally and globally,” she continued. “Wishing you, the rabbi, and all the congregants abundant blessings during this auspicious time. May the community continue to thrive and inspire many.”

Prof. Matathias wrote of the upcoming celebration: “May the grand occasion being planned be an omen of a resurgence of our People’s faith; a renewal of commitment to maintain our ancient roots in Hellas ever-present, joined in solidarity to the fate of Zion in our Jewish Homeland, America, and wherever the Jewish heart beats. Anna and I continue to announce and sing our praises for the achievements of all our coreligionists in our native land.

Interior of the newly restored Synagogue of Larissa

Mentioning Athens, Chalkis, Corfu, Crete, Drama, Kavala, Larissa, Rhodes, Salonica, Volos, Zakinthos is a favorite inclusion in written and oral essays I expound on the Holocaust of Greek Jewry, or contemporary issues; inducing my audiences to rush and open maps in order to locate the centers of Greek Jewish life. May your community, its rabbi, lay officers and congregants continue to enjoy health, and growth in prosperity, cheerfulness and shalom. Amen.”

More information about the Jewish Community of Larissa is available online: https://www.jcl.gr/en/.