Chabad of Kenosha
Thursday April 17, 2008
This past Tuesday morning, April 15, just days before the start of Passover, we were shocked to learn that two Torah scrolls were stolen from our synagogue, Congregation Bnai Zedek Chabad,
On Monday evening, the weekly Torah studies class was held at the Synagogue from 7:00-8:15 p.m. At approximately 8:45 p.m., I departed from the synagogue and left a laptop computer that was used for the class on the table in the social hall.
At about 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, I came back to retrieve the computer, and noticed that it was missing. My immediate reaction was to check on the Torahs and was devastated to find them missing.
There is an investigation being conducted by the Kenosha Police Department, and the FBI have been contacted. We are requesting any assistance available with the investigation. The monetary value of the Torahs is anywhere from $40,000 to $60,000 each.
Far beyond its fiscal value, the Torah is our marriage contract with G-d, and is the holiest and dearest object of our religion. The Torah, which is G-d's word dictated through Moshe, is called "The Tree of Life." As such, the proper action when such a devastating incident regarding the Torah occurs is to be a "Tree of Life" -- to grow as individuals and increase our Torah observances; and as a community, by writing a new scroll and expanding our Torah programs.
Come and join us, as we celebrate freedom and the birth and continual growth of our nation. You can book your spot at our Passover Seder at JewishKenosha.com.
Wishing you all a Kosher and healthy Passover,
Rabbi Tzali Wilschanski
Bnai Zedek Chabad
Efforts to obtain new Torah scrolls are under way, if you would like to help us in our goal please click here. Or send checks to Chabad of Kenosha at 206 55th Ave. Kenosha WI and enter in the Memo Torah.
