Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

In the past week, Canada and America celebrated their Independence Days respectively on July 1 and July 4.

While Israel Independence Day usually occurs in April, a special anniversary coincided with July 4.

On July 4, 1976, the miracle of Entebbe took place. Those who are old enough remember the despot Idi Amin holding Jews from an airline hostage. The liberation and independence of many Jews took place because Israel reaches out to Jews wherever they are. Sadly, IDF soldier Yoni Netanyahu was killed during the rescue, and one hostage, Dora Block, who had been taken to an infirmary, was never found. 

This past July 4 marks the forty-fifth anniversary of the historic rescue.  I was sixteen at the time. I remember the saga vividly as well as the Israeli and American movies which were made soon after. 

The week containing Canada Day and U.S. Independence Day will always provide for me a great memory of why supporting and safeguarding Israel are imperatives for every Jew.

Sincerely,

Rabbi Howard Morrison