In light of recent events, Chief Rabbi of Israel Rabbi Dovid Lau Shlita calls on teachers to remain vigilant and report suspected child abuse to the proper authorities. There have been a number of cases in the frum community in Israel, involving teachers and rabbonim R”L, in which children have been abused and attacked.

Rav Lau states “Unfortunately, recently there was a horrible phenomenon in our court and our region, cases in which boys and girls were harmed in their home or in educational institutions. they have taken place recently and shaken every heart. It is so painful to hear that places which are supposed to be safe havens for the children and youths have become a nightmare of fear.

“At this time, it is the responsibility of parents and educators as well as relatives and all who are involved in the holy work of education to remain vigilant and to come to the assistance of anyone in need. Hiding one’s head is not the correct response for these painful and serious incidents and each and every one must realize his responsibility even if the matter is not directly related to him”.

The rav emphasizes anyone and everyone must act if there are signs, and not to turn one’s head aside because one is not directly involved. Rav Lau stresses each and every person is obligated to act towards protecting the children and youths, for if not, the damage to the child can be devastating.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)