Rabbi Metzger: Give charity for success of rescue forces

Chief Sephardi Rabbi Shlomo Amar leads thousands in prayer at the Western Wall for God to bring a swift end to the raging fire.

By JONAH MANDEL
311_Amar and Metzger at Joseph's Tomb (photo credit: Courtesy)
311_Amar and Metzger at Joseph's Tomb
(photo credit: Courtesy)
Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi Yona Meztger has called on the public to give charity and read Psalms for the success of the rescue forces fighting the fire in the Carmel.
“This is a day of mourning for all of the People of Israel,” Metzger said in a statement.
“I’m shocked at the dimensions of the disaster, a national catastrophe and a true tragedy. The glowing light of Hanukka turned into an annihilating fire.”
“I extend my condolences to the bereaved families, and wish a speedy recovery to the injured,” the rabbi continued.
“I call upon each and every person to give charity, even 10 agorot, for the success of the rescue forces, who are risking their lives to save our injured brothers.
“Charity during Hanukka can work miracles, and we need them. In addition, I request of each and every person to pause for a moment and say a chapter of Psalms.”
Chief Sephardi Rabbi Shlomo Amar led thousands in prayer at the Western Wall for God to bring a swift end to the raging fire.
Rabbi of the Western Wall and holy sites Shmuel Rabinowitz offered a prayer for the speedy recovery of those injured in the fire, and expressed hope that the fire in Israel would be one of light and hope, unlike today’s obliterating blaze.