24/07/2026
Thousands of Beitar Jerusalem Supporters in Cyprus: The Jewish Community of Cyprus Prepares a Day of Prayer, Tefillin, and Breaking the Fast
Thousands of Beitar Jerusalem supporters who have travelled to Larnaca for the club's away match against AEK Larnaca are being warmly welcomed by the Jewish Community of Cyprus. Throughout the day, prayer services are being held, tefillin stations have been set up, and at the conclusion of the fast, meals will be distributed to thousands of supporters and members of the team.
The Jewish Community of Cyprus, under the leadership of Chief Rabbi Arie Zeev Raskin, has been preparing extensively for the arrival of the many Israeli visitors. The activities on the ground are being coordinated by Rabbi Shneur Levitin and his wife, together with members of the local Jewish community and numerous volunteers, all working tirelessly to ensure that every Jew feels at home, even while away from Israel.
From the early morning hours, Rabbi Levitin organised Shacharit prayer services for supporters and members of the Beitar Jerusalem delegation. Later in the day, Mincha services were also held with the participation of many visitors. In addition, tefillin stations were established near the stadium, giving thousands of supporters the opportunity to perform this important mitzvah before the match.
As the conclusion of the fast approached, the community completed extensive logistical preparations to distribute thousands of sandwiches, bottles of water, and soft drinks to supporters and the team, enabling everyone to break the fast immediately after nightfall, shortly before kick-off.
Rabbi Shneur Levitin commented, "When thousands of Jews arrive in Cyprus on a fast day, it is our responsibility to care for all of their needs, both spiritual and physical. It is inspiring to witness the unity and the desire of so many Jews to pray, put on tefillin, and observe the sanctity of the day, even while travelling to support their team."
The Jewish Community of Cyprus noted that this is part of its ongoing year-round work serving the many thousands of Israelis and Jewish visitors who come to Cyprus each year, providing assistance with every aspect of Jewish life and ensuring that every visitor has access to the support, hospitality, and services they need.