The small synagogue aboard the S.S. Israel, Israel’s newest and largest passenger liner, built in Germany under the terms of the reparations agreement, was dedicated today, just before the vessel left for Haifa, by British Chief Rabbi Israel Brodie who was assisted by Rabbi M. Newman, the ship’s rabbi. Present at the ceremony were Israel Ambassador Eliahu Elath and representatives of the Southampton Jewish community who presented the synagogue with a Kiddush cup.
Earlier this weekend, at a luncheon aboard the liner, Ambassador Elath spoke of the ties of friendship between Israel and Britain which he hoped would be strengthened by trade between the two states. He noted that Israel, with ports on the Mediterranean opening to the West, and outlets through the Red Sea to the East was the only country in Asia situated so fortunately for maritime commerce.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.