ROME – The Jewish Community embraces Or Lamishpachot at the Great Synagogue

On Purim, a delegation from Or Lamishpachot (Light to the Families), an Israeli non-profit organization supporting families of fallen soldiers and victims of terrorist attacks, returned to Rome for the seventh time. Of the 64 parents welcomed at the Great Synagogue, 49 lost a child in the October 7 attacks and the subsequent war. Among them, there was Elchanan Danino, father of Ori, who was murdered by Hamas along other youths before an IDF strike to liberate them.

The parents were greeted by the President of the Jewish Community, Victor Fadlun, and the Chief Rabbi of Rome, Riccardo Di Segni. “It is always touching to accompany these parents, and to make them feel our affection,” said Raffaele Terracina, one of founders of the project and a liaison between Italy and Israel. “It is a beautiful story of cooperation and commitment to a common cause,” he emphasized. “The association in Israel contributes the flight tickets, while the hospitality in Rome and the activities are made possible by private donations and restaurants that offer meals.” The initiative began some years ago on the initiative of then President of the Jewish Community, Riccardo Pacifici. Over time, it spread to other cities such as Florence, which the group will visit after Rome.