Western Wall Rabbi Shmuel Rabinovitch sent a letter to Senator Barack Obama Tuesday, expressing remorse that the US presidential candidate's prayer note was removed from the stones of the Kotel and printed by Ma'ariv, and wishing for the senator's prayers to be answered, it was reported on Tuesday.
US Democratic presidential contender Sen. Barack Obama places a note in the Western Wall.
Photo: AP
Rabinovitch's letter was sent after the yeshiva student who took the senator's note apologized and the message was put back between the stones.
Obama visited Jerusalem during a brief visit to Israel last week.
"As the rabbi of the Western Wall and the holy sites, I express my deep regret for this despicable act. Many people visit the Western Wall - Jews and non-Jews - and the respect for them and their prayers is of extreme importance to us," wrote Rabinovitch. "I can only apologize that the holy atmosphere didn't touch the heart of the yeshiva student as it touched your heart."
"Your prayer, of course, has not been spoiled and you have not been damaged by this publication," he stressed. "I wish for your prayers to be answered and may you be a faithful servant to the Almighty and be among those who work for and see the goodness of Jerusalem."
