Members of The Ark Synagogue – led by Rabbi Aaron Goldstein – brought warmth, friendship and support on a visit to their two twinned Ukrainian Progressive Jewish communities in Lviv and Lutsk. The group met leaders and community members, as well as students from the local University Hillel.

Rabbi Aaron delivered Torah study sessions and led Shabbat services in both communities, providing inspiration, comfort and spiritual nourishment.

Sofia Springer, a member in Lutsk, said: “It was so lovely to be with people radiating warmth and cordiality. For me, this meeting became a holiday in such a difficult time.”

Sergei and Tatiana, the Lutsk Progressive Community Directors, added: “It’s only been a week, and we already miss our friends from the Ark! We thank everyone who helped prepare the programme, hold events and create this amazing atmosphere. Together, we not only preserve traditions but also strengthen our friendship.”

Ark members similarly felt uplifted and moved by their encounters with Progressive Jews in Ukraine.

The Ark’s visit also explored Lviv’s rich Jewish heritage and its many beautiful historic landmarks, synagogues, and museums. Member Franklyn Gellnick was invited to participate in a special concert organised by local Jewish music ensembles linked with the Teyva Progressive community. It was an incredible celebration of Jewish culture, joy, and resilience and lifted everyone’s spirits.

The group visited the Janowska concentration camp site on the outskirts of Lviv and learned about its history. They were told of the difficulty of keeping the memory of the Holocaust alive during Soviet times and the role of the Lviv Progressive community in bringing this history back to the consciousness of the public.

The Ark Synagogue and its rabbis have supported Progressive communities in Ukraine for decades and, since 2017, have fostered strong relationships between its members and those in Lutsk and Lviv. Before COVID and the invasion by Russia, Ark members visited in person, and since then, they have regularly attend each other’s services online. Rabbi Aaron last visited in 2023, and today’s visitors from the Ark left Ukraine feeling inspired and committed to continue to help and support the Progressive Jewish communities in the country.

• A full report and photo gallery will feature in the next issue of LJ Today.