(Courtesy of JFNNJ) In the aftermath of Oct. 7, Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey has played a critical role in uniting and supporting our community. Rabbi Beni Krohn, immediate past president of the Rabbinical Council of Bergen County (RCBC), shares his perspective on Federation’s work, its unique ability to bring people together, and the vital role it plays in addressing the needs of the Jewish community locally and globally.
How did you gain an appreciation of Federation’s work in the community?
A couple of years ago, I participated in Federation’s “Backyard Mission” for rabbis, designed to showcase its impact on our community. I saw firsthand the incredible work Federation does through the JCC, JFCS, the Jewish Home and other grantee agencies. It was amazing to see all that Federation does for our community and how wide its impact is. This event was also a great opportunity for clergy from multiple denominations to share time together, get to know each other better, and collaborate on shared needs and experiences.
How has the RCBC benefited from Federation’s support this past year?
This year, the partnership between the RCBC and Federation has been stronger than ever.
After Oct. 7, I was on the phone with Jason Shames, Federation CEO, right away, discussing how we could help the community cope with the aftermath. By Tuesday night, Federation had already organized a community-wide gathering, which was so meaningful for the community at that time.
Federation also led the charge for the rally in Washington just a few weeks later, handling everything from logistics to busing. They made sure the entire community could stand together with ease and comfort, even coordinating MetroCards for participants. It was a great example of how our partnership with Federation allows us all to do so much more than we could on our own.
At the counter-protest at Bnai Yeshurun, Federation leadership and security stood shoulder to shoulder with the community. This was a very important statement to the community and the broader community.
They also played a critical role in the Oct. 7 anniversary commemoration. The complexity of bringing the community together to mark such a tragic day was immense, but Federation’s thoughtful and detailed planning ensured the event was meaningful and unifying and 4,500 people, Jews and non-Jews from all walks of life, gathered together “under one tent.”
How has Federation helped you in your professional role as a rabbi?
Federation brings rabbis from different denominations together to address shared challenges, learn about resources available to the Jewish community, and foster camaraderie. This sense of connection and support has been invaluable to me in my role as a rabbi, and I am deeply grateful.
What’s one thing that you wish people knew about Federation?
Federation demonstrates over and over again that it steps up to meet the needs of the moment, as it did so effectively after Oct 7.
And my experiences over the past two years have shown me that Federation is uniquely suited to act as a unifying force for the Jewish community. Federation continues to be there to partner with us as we build a stronger, more connected Jewish community.
