18,000 Aussie Jews to gather online for Lag b’Omer
18,000 Australian Jews are encouraged to come together virtually on Monday, May 11 at 6pm to mark Lag b'Omer.
LAG b’Omer celebrations in Australia will be held differently this year in what is believed to be a world-first initiative.
More than 200 Jewish organisations across the country have united for the “18for18” virtual event on Monday, May 11 at 6pm, where at least 18,000 Jews in Australia and New Zealand will gather online for 18 jam-packed minutes of unity and togetherness to celebrate Lag b’Omer.
The number 18, or “Chai”, symbolises life and Jewish vibrancy. Lag b’Omer has become internationally recognised as a celebration of Jewish vibrancy and pride.
Traditionally marked in Australia with large parades in each individual state, this year – in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic – Lag b’Omer will be celebrated with a communal online event instead.
Promising a “spectacular” event, 18for18 coordinator Rabbi Moshe Kahn told The AJN, “Over 100 Jewish organisations across Australia are working together on a spectacular, professionally-run program to be broadcast live, including high-profile Australian and international speakers and singers.
“This pandemic has distanced us physically but nothing can distance us spiritually,” he added.
“We encourage every Jewish household across the country to join us online for the biggest celebration of Jewish pride our nation has ever seen.”
For more information and to join the event on Monday, May 11 at 6pm, visit 18for18.com.au.
comments