Jaron Engelmayer

Viennese Jewish Community Celebrates Passover: A Festival of Freedom Between Tradition and Contemporary Challenges

As the sun sets on the evening of April 1, 2026, the eight-day Passover festival begins for millions of Jews around the world. It is one of Judaism’s most significant festivals, commemorating the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt. But in 2026, the festive mood is overshadowed by a complex global security situation and economic concerns. While the community in Vienna comes together, strict security measures dominate the scene in Israel.

April 1, 2026

IGGÖ and Austria as Bridge Builders Through Interfaith Dialogue

From Vienna to the provinces: the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan is increasingly becoming a platform for social cohesion in Austria. While Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen sent a strong signal for diversity at the interfaith Iftar in Cobenzl Castle, the Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGÖ) emphasized the importance of internal cohesion at its internal Muslim fast-breaking ceremony.

February 26, 2026

Yom Kippur: Day of Atonement and Second Chances in Vienna

The Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, marks the end of the ten days of repentance and remembrance that begin with the New Year festival of Rosh Hashanah. In 2025, Yom Kippur begins at sundown on Wednesday, October 1 and ends at nightfall on Thursday, October 2. As the holiest holiday of spiritual repentance, it is an essential opportunity for reconciliation with God and fellow human beings and is also observed in Vienna with strict fasting and intense prayer.

October 1, 2025

Chief Rabbi of Vienna Meets Van der Bellen

Vienna's newly appointed Chief Rabbi Jaron Engelmayer made his inaugural visit to President Van der Bellen to discuss current topics of the religious community and the Covid-19 situation.

September 24, 2020
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