Word was received here today from Bucharest that the Rumanian authorities had released Rabbi Zisu Jacob Portogal, famed Rumanian Jewish spiritual, leader, and his son. They had been held for several months pending investigation of charges that followed the aged rabbi’s refusal to give up his attempts to locate and care for Rumanian Jewish orphans. Rabbi Portogal is known as the “Skulener Rebbe.”
No word was received as to the fate of others arrested at the same time, some of them because they assisted Rabbi Portogal. Rabbi Portogal had defind police orders to remain at home and cease travelling around the country in his rescue efforts.
(The Rumanian Legation in Washington confirmed today that Rabbi Portogal had been released. The Rumanian authorities are being asked to give Rabbi Portogal an exit visa permitting him to leave Rumania and come to the United States to become spiritual leader of the K’hal Adas Yereim Congregation in Brooklyn. An American entry visa will be ready for Rabbi Portogal, it was learned, as soon as he has the necessary permission to leave Rumania.)
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