Congregation welcomes hero of Surfside during FIDF Shabbaton

A show of solidarity with IDF soldiers

Delray Beach, Florida (March 1, 2022)

Anshei Emuna Congregation and Friends of the IDF (FIDF) held a special Shabbaton last weekend that featured a commander who was a critical part of the elite Israeli delegation integral to the emergency effort during the Surfside search and rescue mission. The unique weekend program in Delray Beach was led by FIDF chief executive officer Rabbi Steven Weil.

The Shabbaton at Anshei Emuna Congregation featured a kiddush lunch on Saturday, followed by a special lecture titled, “Faces of the IDF: Meet the IDF Heroes Confronting Israel’s Greatest Challenges.”

Anshei Emuna welcomed Rabbi Weil and Major Ofir, who serves as the company commander for officers professionally training in the IDF Search and Rescue unit. Ofir is a “Chief of Staff’s Excellency Award” recipient and was part of the elite Israeli delegation that volunteered during the Surfside search and rescue mission.

Throughout the mission, FIDF representatives and volunteers stepped up and provided critical support to Major Ofir and the IDF Search and Rescue Unit, including new rescue equipment, kosher food, and more. FIDF provided the unit with the warm care of extended family while they were far from home.

Major Ofir lectures to local students during the Shabbaton in Delray Beach. Photo credit: Courtesy of FIDF

“Whether in Israel or abroad, we are proud to provide support during the most difficult humanitarian crises,” said Major Ofir. “Working with the local rescue forces at Surfside was an incredible experience because we got to connect with one another and learn from one another. We experienced this tragedy together and we are thankful to the FIDF for caring for us during our stay.”

FIDF offers educational, cultural, recreational and social programs and facilities that provide hope, purpose and life-changing support for IDF soldiers who protect Israel and Jews worldwide.

“FIDF is privileged to partner with the Anshei Emuna Congregation in building the future of the Jewish world and the future of Israel,” said Rabbi Weil. “We appreciate the emotional, financial and moral support that the South Palm Beach and Broward communities invest toward the education and welfare of the IDF soldiers. I was humbled to share the podium with Major Ofir, whose team made priceless contributions in a time of crisis to the Jewish community at Surfside.”

According to Rabbi Jack Engel, the spiritual leader of Congregation Anshei Emuna, “Being a modern orthodox synagogue goes hand in hand with supporting Israel and the IDF. We were honored to welcome Rabbi Steven Weil of FIDF and Major Ofi r to our community to express our support for the well-being of the soldiers.”