“History tells us of the many times Jews have suffered at the hands of haters. But October 7 was the first pogrom against the Jews in our lifetimes. The world’s response has been absolutely shocking.”
These stark words from Advocate Eduard Fagan set the tone at the Celebration of Friendship, hosted by Cape Town’s Jewish community on 8 December.
Lighting a candle alongside his colleague, Elsa van Huysteen, Fagan spoke of the deep bonds between the Jewish and Christian communities. “The only moral response to what we are witnessing across the world,” he said, “is solidarity with the Jewish people.” His message reflected the unwavering support many local Christian leaders have shown since the October 7 attacks.
The annual event, organised by the South African Zionist Federation Cape Council (SAZFCC),in collaboration with the Cape SA Jewish Board of Deputies and the South African Friends of Israel (SAFI), honours Capetonians who have made a conscious moral choice to stand up for what they believe is right. These are individuals and church communities who openly support Israel, seeing it as central to their faith and values. Among those recognised were prominent public figures, including MPs Glynnis Breytenbach, Steve Swart, Katherine Christie and Anthea Gordon.
SAZF Cape Council Executive Director Heather Blumenthal paid tribute to the visible acts of solidarity shown in the aftermath of October 7. “Your willingness to stand with us in a country where antisemitism and anti-Zionism are present at an official level helps us feel that we are not alone,” she said. “Your support for Israel is not theoretical – it is real and lived.”
Special guest Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein described the gathering as an “alliance of good people in South Africa”. He thanked Christian friends of Israel for standing firm on shared values. “While we gather here as friends of Israel, we are also friends of values,” he said. “The values of the Bible are the values South Africans want for their children.”
Rabbi Goldstein contrasted these principles with the stance of the South African government, which he said has eroded public trust by prioritising its position against Israel over the pressing challenges facing South Africans.
The moving candle-lighting ceremony saw representatives from various organisations and churches highlighting themes of unity, remembrance of the hostages, the pursuit of peace, hope, and compassion for all victims of terror.
The evening concluded on a joyful note, with Israeli dancing, song, and the strengthening of friendships – a powerful reminder that, even in difficult times, solidarity and shared values continue to shine.
SA Zionist Federation – Cape Council – Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
- For the current edition of the Cape Jewish Chronicle, click here.
- Subscribe to the Cape Jewish Chronicle: R450/year, or R38/month via debit order. Simply email us at subscriptions@ctjc.co.za and click here for payment info.
- The Cape Jewish Chronicle reaches over 6 000 readers monthly across print and digital platforms.
- To book advertising space or discuss a custom package contact Adéle Gradner Mobile: 083 321 5222 | Office: 021 464 6736 | Email advertising@ctjc.co.za
