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For long years the Jews in the USSR were deprived of a chance to join
to the history, culture and religion of their people. That is why only in the
last decade of the XX century the Jewish way of life began reviving in the FSU.
Assimilation also influenced communities. Sabbath candles
were lit rarer from year to year, but people still felt nostalgia for the times
when everything was allowed.
Today the Jews are coming back
to the source. Thanks to the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee there
are already 12 Hasadim and 12 JCC's in Kazakhstan.
As these
organizations appeared in Taraz, the communal life changed. Hesed and JCC contribute
greatly to strengthening the Jewish identity and bridging with the native people.
Now the community is experienced in conducting Kabbalat Shabbat and
Jewish holidays. Why holidays first? Because today we resemble children -
we learn things better in the form of a game. Thus celebrations help to spread
knowledge of Tradition, culture, and language among the community members.
We have no right to forget our background; it is the only way for
us to remain a united nation!
Arkady Feldman (coordinator
of religious programs in Hesed "Taraz") |
