Singing to Hashem in Uganda

Last year, during my visit to my esteemed friend Rabbi Capers Funnye of the Beth Shalom Bnai Zaken Ethiopian Hebrew Congregation in the south side of Chicago, he told me about several Judaism-practicing communities in Africa with whom he maintains contact and visits periodically. One of them is the Abuyadaya Community of Uganda.

As we say thrice daily in the "Aleinu" prayer, we await the day when all of mankind will call Hashem's Name. Meanwhile, let's enjoy meeting, seeing and hearing Yosef Squared, a young Abuyadaya who sings his praises to Hashem. Enjoy it!

Comments

[Rickyb613]

Rabbi Brody,

This is truly amazing and inspirational... What is the background story of the Abuyadaya? I have heard conflicting stories - some of which point to them being proselytized by missionaries about 100 years ago... I have known of this group for years, but never could get a clear background story of their history... I have the same question on the Black Hebrews Congregation in Chicago. I have heard many folks say most members are not halachically Jewish, possibly including R' Funnye. Could you clear this up for me?

Kol Tuv,
Yerachmiel Beiles (Chicago)