Talk on modern Jewish life in Germany


The Conejo Jewish Academy will host a lecture titled “The Jews Are Back” with guest speaker Rabbi Yitzchak M. Wagner at 8 p.m. Mon., April 1 at the academy, 30347 Canwood St., Agoura Hills.

One of Germany’s youngest community rabbis, Wagner was the first ordained rabbi born in Germany after the Holocaust. He is also the first rabbi in his hometown of Krefeld in over 70 years.

Wagner will provide a brief synopsis of the history of the Shoah from the perspective of the medium-sized Jewish community of Krefeld.

He will discuss: Has Germany truly changed? What is it like living as a Jew in Germany today? How does Germany address the Holocaust? What are the benefits and challenges of being a German rabbi?

This past Hanukkah, the Jews of Germany marked the 80th anniversary of Kristallnacht— the “Night of Broken Glass,” during which Nazis attacked Jews and their synagogues, homes and businesses throughout the German Reich—in an emotional and inspirational manner.

During the event, German President Frank- Walter Steinmeier was lifted in a cherry picker to kindle what was billed as Europe’s largest Hanukkah menorah at the Brandenburg Gate, the same spot where Hitler stood 80 years earlier reviewing a Nazi parade and promoting anti- Semitism.

The historic event will also be part of the talk given by Wagner.

The fee is $12 for advanced paid reservations and $15 at the door. To make reservations, visit jewishacademy.com or call (818) 991-0991.