Rabbi Yitzchak Groner

Posted on: Wednesday, 9 July 2008, 18:00 CDT

By Isi Leibler

Australian Jewry has lost one of its noblest personalities. History will record that Rabbi Yitzchak Groner was beyond doubt the greatest Australian Jewish leader of the past century.

His towering achievements and charismatic presence at all communal levels played a major role in transforming Australian Jewry into one of the finest communities in the Diaspora. The extraordinary expansion of Chabad educational institutions positively influenced the growth of Torah education and day schools throughout the entire Jewish community.

Although unyielding on halachic principles, he exemplified the best traditions of Chabad outreach and compassion. Despite his towering presence and erudition, Ha'Rav Groner was a modest man who spurned materialism and inspired a love and respect by all sections of the community, non-observant as well as religious.

His life represents a role model of spiritual leadership. May he be a Melitz Yashar to be emulated by rabbis all over the world, including Eretz Yisrael.

On a personal note I always enjoyed a special kesher, connection with him, regarding him as among the greatest Jewish personalities I was privileged to respect and love. He brought me on a number of occasions to meet the Rebbe, and I appreciated the high regard in which the Rebbe viewed him.

May Hashem comfort his rebbetzen, children and family among the mourners of Zion.

Yehi Zichro Baruch,

May his memory be blessed.

Originally published by Isi Leibler.

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