On 13 April 1986, Pope John Paul II made a historic visit to the Great Synagogue of Rome, where he was welcomed by the Chief Rabbi of Rome, Elio Toaff. This marked the first time since the era of St Peter that a pope had entered a synagogue. In the address he delivered on that occasion, John Paul II spoke these significant words: “The Church condemns hatred, persecution, and every form of anti-Semitism directed against Jews—at any time and by anyone. I repeat: by anyone.” From the standpoint of historically strained relations between Jews and Christians, it was a landmark moment, and the words spoken on that occasion continue to resonate to this day with all who are deeply committed to dialogue and reconciliation. Exactly forty years later, on 13…

On Sunday, March 15, 2026, at noon, ceremonies commemorating the 83rd anniversary of the liquidation of the Kraków Ghetto by the German occupiers (March 13–14, 1943) were held at Bohaterów Getta Square. The Jewish Religious Community of Kraków was represented in the commemorative march by its Chairwoman, Helena Jakubowicz, together with members of the Board and the Community. Among those attending the ceremony were Wojciech Kolarski, Secretary of State in the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland; Stanisław Kracik, Third Deputy Mayor of Kraków; Cardinal Grzegorz Ryś, Metropolitan Archbishop of Kraków; Dr. Filip Musiał, Director of the Kraków Branch of the Institute of National Remembrance; as well as many residents of Kraków. Speaking on behalf of the organizer of the march, Robert Gądek, Chairman of the Jewish…

Last Friday, March 6, 2026, Professor Monika Adamczyk-Garbowska and Father Paweł Mazanka, CSsR, received the annual Father Stanisław Musiał Awards. Helena Jakubowicz, President of the Jewish Community of Krakow, attended the ceremony at the Collegium Novum of the Jagiellonian University in Krakow. She thanked the laureates for their commitment to building dialogue and mutual understanding. “The Father Musiał Award, which you are receiving today, is not only a testament to your hard work, but also a symbol of values ​​such as cooperation, understanding, and respect,” she said. She also emphasized that the laureates’ determination and passion are proof that we can work together towards a better future in which diversity is appreciated and respected. She also encouraged them to continue working towards dialogue and overcoming prejudice. “Continue building bridges through…

On Monday evening, March 2, we gathered with friends and members of our community to commemorate one of the most joyous Jewish holidays, despite the difficult geopolitical situation. Purim is celebrated on the 14th day of the month of Adar. We began the celebration by reading Megillat Esther, or the Book of Esther (a parchment scroll), in the Kupa synagogue, describing the fate of the Jews of Susa, Haman’s intrigue, and the bravery of Esther and Mordechai. During the reading, those gathered in the synagogue tried to drown out Haman’s name by making noise, stomping, whistling, clapping, and using rattles. This custom is intended to “erase Haman’s name.” Another custom associated with this holiday is giving small gifts to friends and neighbors, usually sweets, fruit, or wine (it is important…