MST Holocaust Torah Gathering at Rodeph Shalom in Philadelphia

TBE Torah in Blue Cover

The Memorials Scrolls Trust (MST) commemorated the 85^th anniversary of Kristallnacht on Nov. 9, 2023, with a gathering of Holocaust Torah Scrolls in Philadelphia at the historic Rodeph Shalom synagogue.  Approximately 50 scrolls saved from Czechoslovakia that are on permanent loan to institutions in Eastern PA and New Jersey, including MST #870 at Temple Beth El, were present for the program.  There were over 350 people in attendance, including dozens of rabbis and cantors from the region. 

Cantor Chesler and 8 congregants from Temple Beth El made the trip, including Holocaust survivor Rosette Lobel.

TBE attendees

During the Program

Rodeph Shalom includes a Jewish Museum, with artifacts displayed throughout the large building.

Touring the Jewish Museum at Rodeph Shalom

The Holocaust Torahs vary in size, shape, and age, creating an impressive visual effect, which was evident before and during the opening procession.

Torahs on the Bimah

Very old Holocaust Torah

Cantor Chesler was one of the cantors who performed during the program.

Cantor Chesler performing

There was a second Hakafot procession near the end of the program.

Hakafot Procession

Temple Beth El’s Religious School joined other synagogues in creating a “Trifold” about everyone’s Holocaust Torah.  TBE’s trifold showed the journey taken by our Torah.

Trifolds about others’ Torahs

TBE’s Trifold story of our Torah’s Journey

The program was extremely moving, especially in light of our troubled times today.