Rabbis of Russia and Ukraine Call on People of Two Countries to Seek Peace

“Remember, we were always together, even when we were separated by borders. We have always had a shared history and destiny. It is especially important now to focus on what unites us,” reads the letter.

The rabbis of Russia and Ukraine issued a statement to the peoples of the two countries, encouraging them to strive for peace and unity. The text of the document was published by the press office of Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar, chair of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia, Religion in Ukraine reports, with a reference to Newsru.

“Remember, we were always together, even when we were separated by borders. We have always had a shared history and destiny. It is especially important now to focus on what unites us,” reads the letter.

“We, the rabbis of Russia and Ukraine, see it as our obligation in this difficult time to call on all parties, especially our fellow believers, to search for peace, understanding,” reads the statement. “We understand that there are political problems, but religious people, especially religious leaders and community leaders, should not interfere in the sphere of politics. We must not forget that every thoughtless word can lead to dangerous consequences for many people.”

“Today, with alarming news coming from everywhere, we have to be together, to pray together, to ask the Lord for peace, the return to having good relations between our countries and peoples,” reads the statement.

Together with Berel Lazar the document was signed by 48 rabbis from Russia and Ukraine.