By Sarah Struglia
Mattia and I went to New York in July. Besides visiting the 9/11 Memorial, Ellis and Liberty islands, China Town, Little Italy, flying over NY in a helicopter, a long walk in beautiful Central Park, and a delicious pastrami on rye at Katz’s, we made a memorable visit to Erev Shabbat at Central Synagogue, in Midtown Manhattan.
We were warmly welcomed by Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel and the entire Central community. The service was very musical as they have an amazing band and cantor. We sang and we prayed, also for the victims of October 7th. The sanctuary was full to the brim and almost everyone was wearing a Bring Them Home Now necklace or a yellow ribbon pin for the hostages. It was very moving and heartwarming!
After services we were invited for Oneg Shabbat to their community house across the street. The shul is every Jew’s home, and it is beautiful to know that we have a safe and warm place to go to when travelling.
Sarah is an IJC Board Member
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