ASTRAKHAN, Russia – For the first time since 1918, the Synagogue of Astrakhan hosted a ceremony for a ritual circumcision of a newborn boy on his eighth day.
This baby is the son of the Chief Rabbi of Astrakhan, Shlomo Zalman Goldenberg. The Chairman of the local Jewish community, Yuri Feldman, together with two community members, one of whom is a six-year old boy, also underwent the Brit Mila ceremony on this day, joining to the covenant of Avraham Avinu.
The Chief Mohel of Russia, Ishaya Shafit traveled to Astrakhan to conduct the circumcision. The Director of Moscow’s 'Machon Chamesh' women’s College, Rabbi Avraham Bekerman, also participated in the ceremony.
Parts of the ceremony were filmed for airing on a regional television network, which according to Rabbi Goldenberg, is important being that it gives all residents of Astrakhan the opportunity to learn about the life of the Jewish community. "I hope that after this broadcast, those Jews who have not yet undergone a circumcision will decide to do it," explained Rabbi Goldenberg. "Indeed, residents of our multi-ethnic region take a great interest in learning more about the religious ceremonies of their neighbors".
Another honored guest, The Head of the Governmental Committee on Legislation for the Astrakhan Region, Alexander Bashkin, came out to congratulate Rabbi Goldenberg and his wife, as well as the other participants. The evening rounded off with a festive meal.
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