07/10/2026
A rooftop sukkah, many traditions, and a shared commitment to unity. ๐ฟโจ
Hosted by Rabbi Isaac Riesenberg in the heart of Balaclava, this Sukkot gathering that took place on October 1st, 2026 brought together clergy and Christian leaders from across Melbourne to celebrate connection and stand in solidarity with the local Jewish community.
Rabbi Barazaโs attendance added a particularly interesting dimension due to his Chinese background and his in-depth knowledge of Christianity to a gathering that included a notable contingent of local Chinese bishops, priests and pastors.
Seeing Jewish and Christian leaders together across such diverse cultural backgrounds offered a beautiful expression of the festivalโs theme of gathering the nations.
Beyond the canapรฉs and refreshments, the occasion carried a meaningful message: our Jewish faith and identity can be respected by Christians while strengthening friendship, affirming shared values and standing together against antisemitism.
We would like to thank Rabbi Riesenberg and everyone who attended for making space for encounter, understanding and solidarity.
May the connections formed beneath the sukkah continue to grow.
