A Light of Faith Amid the Frontline — JTCA Founder Jeffrey D. Schwartz Donates Urim Synagogue, Bringing Faith and Hope to Israel's Frontline Soldiers

Alex

2026-08-04

Taiwan's Representative to Israel, Ambassador Abby Lee, joined the dedication ceremony, symbolizing the shared commitment of Taiwan's government and civil society in supporting Israel and providing a place of faith and spiritual strength for frontline soldiers.

Located in southern Israel, Urim Base serves as one of the country's key military installations and was among the areas affected during the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks. For the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) personnel stationed there, the base represents far more than a place of service. It carries the memories of fallen comrades, the longing for loved ones back home, and the enduring responsibility of defending the nation.

Against this backdrop, the establishment of a synagogue carries significance far beyond the construction of a building.

Recently, Jeffrey D. Schwartz, Founder of the Jewish Taiwan Cultural Association (JTCA), donated the Urim Synagogue at Urim Base, creating a dedicated place for prayer, faith, and spiritual reflection for the soldiers serving on the front lines. The dedication ceremony was jointly officiated by Jeffrey D. Schwartz and Taiwan's Representative to Israel, Ambassador Abby Lee, symbolizing the united support of Taiwan's civil society and government for the people of Israel while reaffirming the deep friendship between Taiwan and Israel, founded upon the shared values of democracy, freedom, and religious faith.

In Jewish tradition, a synagogue is far more than a place of worship. It stands at the heart of Jewish communal and spiritual life, serving as a center for prayer, learning, tradition, and hope. For soldiers stationed far from their families, the Urim Synagogue will provide a sacred place to welcome Shabbat, pray for loved ones, remember fallen comrades, and find inner peace amid the uncertainty of war. More than a place of worship, it will serve as a source of resilience, unity, and spiritual strength.

For many years, Jeffrey D. Schwartz has been dedicated to strengthening cultural exchange, humanitarian cooperation, and friendship between Taiwan and Israel while supporting the well-being of Israeli society. Through this donation, he not only reaffirmed his unwavering support for Israel and the Israel Defense Forces, but also sought to bring hope, comfort, and spiritual encouragement to those serving on the front lines, reflecting the sincere friendship and goodwill of the people of Taiwan.

Notably, the dedication ceremony, jointly attended by Jeffrey D. Schwartz and Ambassador Abby Lee, highlighted the close partnership between Taiwan's government and civil society in advancing Taiwan–Israel relations. At a time of continuing global uncertainty, the inauguration of the Urim Synagogue represented not only the opening of a new place of worship, but also a shared commitment to democracy, freedom, humanitarian values, and religious faith. Above all, it conveyed Taiwan's steadfast support and heartfelt solidarity with the soldiers serving on Israel's front lines.

During the ceremony, Jeffrey D. Schwartz also received a certificate of appreciation signed by Colonel Asher Benishti, then Commander of the Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command Southern District, recognizing his longstanding support for Israel and the IDF, as well as his contributions to Taiwan–Israel relations, the welfare of Israeli soldiers, and the strengthening of Jewish faith and community. The certificate reflects the appreciation of Israel's defense establishment for Jeffrey D. Schwartz's enduring commitment and symbolizes Israel's sincere gratitude for the lasting friendship and support extended by the people of Taiwan.

The ceremony was attended by distinguished representatives from Israel's military, nonprofit organizations, and public sectors. Among them, Shmulik Fried, Director of Friends of Israel at Keren Hayesod, expressed his appreciation for Jeffrey D. Schwartz's longstanding support of Israel. In his remarks, he emphasized that the Urim Synagogue is more than a generous donation—it will serve as a lasting source of spiritual comfort and hope for countless frontline soldiers, ensuring that faith continues to shine where it is needed most.

During the event, Jeffrey D. Schwartz was also presented with a commemorative artwork crafted from the remnants of rockets used in terrorist attacks against Israel. Formed into the shape of the map of Israel, the artwork symbolizes the transformation of destruction into resilience, hope, and renewal. It stands as a powerful expression of gratitude from the people of Israel to an international friend whose unwavering support has strengthened both the nation and its defenders.

The inauguration of the Urim Synagogue represents far more than the completion of a charitable project. It is the creation of a spiritual home built amid the realities of war—a place where faith offers strength, hope overcomes fear, and friendship transcends borders. Carrying with it the blessings of the people of Taiwan, the synagogue stands as a lasting testament to the enduring friendship between Taiwan and Israel, founded upon shared values and a common belief in humanity, faith, and peace.