This Sunday, at the AJEX Annual Remembrance Parade, we are reminded of a timeless Jewish value: service, the readiness to step forward when called.
In this spirit, we think of Eliezer, Avraham’s devoted servant. The Torah tells us little about him beyond his role, finding a wife for Yitzchak, Avraham’s son, yet that is precisely his greatness. Eliezer’s entire identity was bound to his mission of faithful service.
Commentaries suggest that Eliezer had a daughter whom he hoped Yitzchak might marry, yet he remained true to his mission. He acted not for recognition, but out of loyalty and purpose. His seeming anonymity is not a loss of self, but rather the ultimate expression of humility and dedication.
So too, on Remembrance Day, we honour the men and women who served, often quietly and without seeking glory, defending freedom, justice, and the nation they called home.
Each year, the AJEX Annual Parade gathers to remember those who gave their lives in the service of the Crown, ensuring their sacrifice is never forgotten. Many among us have loved ones who fought and paid the ultimate price. I would like to mention my grandfather, Mordechai Tzvi Charitnow, who was killed in the Second World War fighting the Nazis.
AJEX and its annual parade remind both Jews and non-Jews alike of the vital role our community has played in British life, a living testament to faith, duty, and devotion.
May we, like Eliezer, carry forward that same spirit of readiness to serve with humility, faith, and purpose.
Wishing you a good Shabbos.
Rabbi Mendy Vogel
This Sunday, at the AJEX Annual Remembrance Parade, we are reminded of a timeless Jewish value: service, the readiness to step forward when called.
In this spirit, we think of Eliezer, Avraham’s devoted servant. The Torah tells us little about him beyond his role, finding a wife for Yitzchak, Avraham’s son, yet that is precisely his greatness. Eliezer’s entire identity was bound to his mission of faithful service.
Commentaries suggest that Eliezer had a daughter whom he hoped Yitzchak might marry, yet he remained true to his mission. He acted not for recognition, but out of loyalty and purpose. His seeming anonymity is not a loss of self, but rather the ultimate expression of humility and dedication.
So too, on Remembrance Day, we honour the men and women who served, often quietly and without seeking glory, defending freedom, justice, and the nation they called home.
Each year, the AJEX Annual Parade gathers to remember those who gave their lives in the service of the Crown, ensuring their sacrifice is never forgotten. Many among us have loved ones who fought and paid the ultimate price. I would like to mention my grandfather, Mordechai Tzvi Charitnow, who was killed in the Second World War fighting the Nazis.
AJEX and its annual parade remind both Jews and non-Jews alike of the vital role our community has played in British life, a living testament to faith, duty, and devotion.
May we, like Eliezer, carry forward that same spirit of readiness to serve with humility, faith, and purpose.
Wishing you a good Shabbos.
Rabbi Mendy Vogel