Hebrew Order of David International Marks 120 Years with Celebration and Awards
Johannesburg, 5 August 2024 — The Hebrew Order of David International, a distinguished organisation with deep roots dating back to its founding in South Africa in 1904, commemorated its 120th anniversary with a grand Celebration and Awards Evening at the HOD Centre in Orchards, Johannesburg.
The event, held on Sunday evening, underscored the Order's enduring legacy and its global presence. Grand President Anton Teper, who travelled from London for the occasion, was joined by members from Lodges across South Africa, including Cape Town, Durban, East London, and Port Elizabeth.
The evening’s festivities featured a sumptuous dinner provided by Catering by Riva, with tables elegantly adorned with memorabilia from various Lodges that once thrived across South Africa. These decorations provided a nostalgic journey through the Order's storied history. Adding a poignant touch, packs of candles were prepared with the names of hostages held in Gaza, a heartfelt gesture coordinated by Bea Steiner and her granddaughter Shayna Ash.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards to members for their exceptional dedication and long service. Many honourees have been part of the Order for over 50 years, with Neil Melnick standing out for his remarkable 66 years of commitment.
Certificates for distinguished service were awarded to Colin Zaiden and Philip Gersun from Lodge Jerusalem; Doron Blackman from Hillel-Menorah in Port Elizabeth; Joel Goldstein, Mark Meltzer, Saul Shapiro and Michael Kaimowitz from Lodge Negev; Neville Kahn and Robin Sarembock from Dr Herzl Lodge; Solly Baskin from Sir Harry Graumann Lodge; and Eddie Cohen from Lodge Jaffa. Certificates will also be presented to Barry Alice and Les Levin from Lodge Jaffa, Louis Robinson from Rev Chaim Katz Lodge, Jonathan Rubin from Lodge Hillel-Menorah, David Scher and Robert Levin from Lodge Golan, who were unable to attend.
Gift Mkhize was recognized for his longstanding service as a dedicated staff member of the Order.
Additional notable achievements included Joshua Oshry from Lodge Jaffa in Durban being elevated to the Third Degree. Colin Goldberg from Lodge Golan in Cape Town was honoured with the Order of Merit for his exemplary service. Julyan Amler, a past Grand President and current President of Lodge Jerusalem, received the Shield of David, the Order's highest award. Lifetime Achievement trophies were presented to Bernard Shull, Selwyn Fein, and Stan Klaff, all past Grand Presidents and current leaders of the Governing Lodge of South Africa, in recognition of their exceptional contributions to the Order.
The Master of Ceremonies, Avron Krasner, the Immediate Past Grand President and son of former Honorary Member Michael Krasner, guided the evening's proceedings with dignity and respect.
The Hebrew Order of David International continues to flourish with Lodges in the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Israel, while maintaining a strong presence in South Africa. This celebration not only honoured the Order's illustrious past but also looked forward to its ongoing impact and future growth on the global stage.