For many years, I have been privileged to have an ongoing dialogue with Rabbi Labaton. This wonderful relationship made an everlasting impact on my perspective of the community and the world at large. A meeting with the Rabbi was always an experience dominated by his intellect, wit, and his expressive face that emanated love and compassion. He was a passionate man always ready to defend and fight for the principles he believed in.
My discussions with Rabbi Labaton focused primarily on our community and the challenges we face in addressing the ever more complex world we live in. He deeply loved our community and was committed to the struggle of maintaining our core values while preparing our children and grandchildren to connect with and flourish in our society. He taught the values of love, education, kindness, and respect for each other, as well as, of course, a deep love for the state of Israel. His love and knowledge of the Torah was legendary, and he believed in the obligation we all have to engage with and enlighten the world Hashem has given us.
In recent years, our discussions focused on the Sephardic Community Alliance (SCA), an organization founded four years ago with the Rabbi’s enthusiastic support. He served as a strong voice in encouraging the SCA to continue to expand our programs and mission, and we are grateful to him for the successes we have had in implementing educational and leadership programs that are helping to advance the ideals he so fervently advocated.
Rabbi Labaton has inspired us all with his vision of love and respect, as well as his passion for education and enlightenment. Although we lost a great man, Rabbi, and warrior, his values will be with us forever.
By Morris Bailey
