Brother Of LI Rabbi Runs Ukrainian Synagogue Remotely

MERRICK, NY — While many Ukrainian residents are fleeing the missiles and bombs, the brother of a Nassau County rabbi is the leader of a synagogue in Ukraine. However, Chabad Rabbi Eliyahu Kramer is overseeing congregants virtually from Israel.

When separatists started shooting in the streets in 2014, the Kramers helped the community as best they could.

"After four months, he left and most of the community left," his brother Shimon Kramer, a Chabad rabbi in Merrick, said. "They saw that there was no end in sight and they felt that it was difficult for them to continue."

Kramer is maintaining close ties with his community in Makeevka in the Donbas area and assisting refugees to reach Israel.

"He's in touch with them all the time," Rabbi Shimon Kramer told Patch. "He sends them anything they need and he still conducts all the services from afar."

But, membership has dwindled due to the war with Russia.

"A lot of people ran away. Most of the community left and we'll have to see what's left once it gets quiet to see if they come back," Rabbi Shimon Kramer said.

Waiting for Kramer's brother is his house in Ukraine, filled with all of his important paperwork, holy books and Shabbat candlesticks.

Kramer is hopeful of returning to Ukraine and his synagogue, but for now he is focused on supporting the people.

Rabbi Shimon Kramer said he's been in touch with other Chabad rabbis, who decided to stay put in Ukraine.

"It's very difficult for them. They have to make quick decisions where to go and what to do," he said.