A Menorah for the PM
The Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-CEO Peter Wertheim travelled to Canberra today to present a Menorah to Prime Minister Scott Morrison as a gesture of support for him and the Government in leading Australia through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Joshua Frydenberg with Jillian Segal on his laptop, Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Peter Wertheim and Julian Lesser
ECAJ President Jillian Segal watched the presentation on her laptop in Sydney and thanked the Prime Minister in particular for the Government’s ongoing support for the Jewish community in good times and in bad.
Also attending the presentation were Treasurer Josh Frydenberg and Julian Lesser, Liberal MP for the Sydney seat of Berowra.
The Prime Minister has a collection of Judaica items in his office but this did not previously include a Menorah. ECAJ Co-CEO Peter Wertheim explained the difference between the nine-branch Hanukkiah and the seven-branch Menorah. He also explained the antiquity of the Menorah as both a religious and national symbol of the Jewish people noting that it is also the national symbol of the State of Israel.
“The Menorah is above all a symbol of light and enlightenment, of knowledge and of spiritual awareness,” Mr Wertheim said.
“We hope that this Menorah will serve the Government and the Prime Minister as an inspiration to light the path forward for the country and bring hope in times of fear and uncertainty”.
Prime Minister responded: “I’m so pleased to be able to display this Menorah in my office. Thank you. It signifies the light that guides us through challenging times and will serve as a daily reminder of the contribution of the Jewish community to Australia.”
Very excited about this connection with Israel. The nations will be held to answer for their relatinship with Israel and I pray that Australia maintains great and affectionate connection. We have benefitted so greatly by the gift of the Bible and the Messiah and can never sufficiently thank Israel for their part in our national make-up. Our connection is strengthened by our part in 1917 and by the many Jewish people that have contributed to our own national development.
Long may we remain close friends and allies.