Adass Israel fixes mezuzah on new temporary shule
Community leaders have received a police briefing on the Adass Israel firebombing investigation prior to weekday services recommencing at their new premises.
Adass Israel has officially started normal weekday services at its new temporary synagogue in the wake of the firebombing last year.
The mezuzah was fixed at the new location on Tuesday evening by the community’s Chief Rabbi, Shlome Kohn and shacharit (morning) services commenced the next day.
The location of the new premises is being kept secret for obvious security reasons.
Spokesperson for Adass, Chayim Klein, told The AJN, “It’s very heartwarming and exciting to have a new temporary place. Everybody is resilient and adapting but also we’re looking forward to the big rebuild when that happens, so this is fantastic.”
He said there are no signs outside the temporary shule showing it’s a synagogue, and they have enhanced security measures in place.
The community’s permanent shule was firebombed on December 6 last year.
Authorities classified the incident as a terrorist attack fuelled by antisemitism.
Victoria Police and Australian Federal Police launched a counter-terrorism investigation into the attack, seeking three suspects believed to be involved.
No arrests have been made so far.
Before the mezuzah ceremony on Tuesday, community leaders met with Victoria Police acting Chief Commissioner Rick Nugent and Assistant Commissioner Chris Gilbert.
Klein said “We’re very happy with the level of communication we’re getting from the Police about the progress of the investigation. Obviously we’re keen to see arrests made”.
The congregation has vowed to rebuild “bigger and better,” with the new temporary shule established while funds are raised for reconstruction.
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