Last week, people around the world watched as 33 Chilean miners were rescued after being trapped underground for more than two months. Today, five Chilean MPs were in Israel to give thanks at the Kosel for the amazing rescue.The parliamentary delegation was accompanied by leading figures in the Chilean Jewish community.
Rav Shmuel Rabinovich, the rov of the Kosel, greeted the delegation in his office and told them that the Jewish people took joy in the miners’ rescue. He and the visitors said a prayer together.
The visiting MPs spoke of their country’s warm ties to Israel, and of Chile’s flourishing Jewish community.
Last week, Chilean Jewish mining executive Leonardo Farkas gave each of the 33 miners a check for $10,000. Farkas is known in Chile for his philanthropy.
The newly rescued miners have received other gifts as well, along with offers of possible book and film deals. The men may need their newfound fame to get by, as the mine they worked for has shut down to deal with safety issues.
