Moscow, 8 May 2008 (Interfax):
Rav Berel Lazar, the Chief Rabbi of Russia, greeted World War II veterans on the eve of Victory Day, noting that their courage and self-sacrifice “gave life and dignity to all the peoples of Europe. Every year on this day, not only do we remember your bravery, but, we also think of what the world would be like today without your achievement. Then, in the first half of 1940s, the Nazi empire managed to conquer almost all of Europe, its armies invaded Africa, and through its allies, it extended its influence into Asia”, Rav Lazar said in Victory Day greetings given on Thursday to Interfax-Religion.
Rav Lazar commented that if the Nazis had won, “the world would have faced a catastrophe for several generations, if not for centuries. Many states of that time have disappeared from the map, but, the memory of your victory still stands. I am confident that your courage shall be remembered not only by the people living now, but, also by many generations to come”, his greetings said.
Rav Lazar believes that the victory in the Great Patriotic War not only defeated the Nazis, “but, also created a world order where fascism has no chance to regain power”, and because of that victory, “the present generation lives in a free and democratic world. Today, we shall pray for those who gave their lives for the present generation. We shall always remember those who did not live to see the Victory and those who later died due to their wounds or from diseases contracted on active service. But, for you, our dear veterans, we shall ask God to give you long years of life filled with joy, spiritual achievements, and deep respect from your descendants”, Rav Lazar said.
Interfax-Religion
http://www.interfax-religion.ru/?act=news&div=24367 (in Russian)
