Poltava/Odesa Committee: Supporting Our Sister Congregations

Supporting Our Sister Congregations in Ukraine:
Congregation Beth Am of Poltava and Shirat Ha-Yam of Odesa

The Poltava/Odesa Committee supports two progressive Jewish communities in the Former Soviet Union (FSU), Congregation Beth Am of Poltava and Shirat Ha-Yam of Odesa. This is a collaborative venture under the auspices of Congregation Beth Am, Los Altos Hills and the World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ).

During these trying times, our friends in Ukraine need us more than ever before. Many have had to flee their homes with nothing more than what they can carry. Others are still in Kyiv, Poltava and Odesa to fight for their freedom and  democracy. Innocent people are suffering. Please visit our Crisis In Ukraine page to learn how Congregation Beth Am is taking action to make a positive difference.

Congregation Beth Am of Poltava
Various political and economic challenges have reduced the membership of Congregation Beth Am of Poltava. Congregation Beth Am of Poltava leadership has been and continues to be strong for this small but powerful community. Recently, they were able to halt construction on Poltava City land of apartment buildings that would have concealed a killing field where an atrocity had taken place. They have since planted trees in honor of the people who perished there and in celebration of Lag BaOmer.

Visit Congregation Beth Am of Poltava on:
Facebook

Shirat Ha-Yam of Odesa
Three years ago, Shirat Ha-Yam was a vibrant progressive community lead by Rabbi Juia Gris and community organizer Elena Izmailowa. There were over 200 families attending services and activities in what was a beautiful European-style city on the Black Sea. When the bombs starting, Rabbi Julia was able to bring 40 congregants with her on a harrowing ride to safety to Poland and then to Germany. Others left for locations around the
world, including USA, Poland, England, Israel, and wherever there was safety to be found. Today, about 50 families are still in Odesa, receiving the support they need from the World Union for Progressive Judaism and Congregation Beth
Am, thanks to the coordination of Elena. We provide food certificates, medicine vouchers, PowerPact, and psychological support for those who have stayed. They go online for services with Rabbi Alex Duchovny and Rabbi Julia Gris. In person, Shir Ha-Yam congregants have been able to hold seders under very trying circumstances. They also use their PowerPacts to keep up with the news of the war.

Our committee is in constant communication with Elena Izmailowa, who is working in London to financially support her family in Odesa and coordinate activities for the community in Odesa.

Visit Shirat ha-Yam Congregation Odesa on:
Facebook  |  YouTube

Netzer-Odesa
Netzer, the WUPJ’s Youth Group, has a very energized program that instills a progressive Jewish lifestyle. The Beth Am Poltava/Odesa Committee looks forward to help build this relationship while continuing to support our friends in Poltava.

Visit Netzer-Odesa on:
Facebook  |  Instagram