NEW YORK (VINnews) — Former Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad, the longest-serving governor in U.S. history, put on tefillin for the first time last week, a milestone that came decades after a local rabbi first extended the invitation.

According to Chabad.org, the moment took place during a visit by Rabbi Yossi Jacobson, who has led Iowa’s Chabad community with his wife, Chana, since the early 1990s and maintained a longstanding friendship with Branstad.

Jacobson said the former governor had participated in numerous Jewish community events over the years and had welcomed him into the governor’s office on many occasions. Although the rabbi had previously suggested the mitzvah of tefillin, Branstad had never taken part.

The opportunity arose after Jacobson learned that Branstad, now retired and living in a senior community in Des Moines, was nearby and arranged a visit. During their meeting, the rabbi brought a kosher meal and shared the story of his late brother, Shloimy Jacobson.

Shloimy, who died in 2020 at age 33 after facing significant health challenges, was known for his dedication to putting on tefillin. The rabbi explained that his brother’s tefillin have continued to be used by Jews across Iowa and have helped inspire many people to perform the mitzvah for the first time.

Moved by the story, Branstad agreed to put on the tefillin, recited the traditional blessings and said the Shema prayer, according to Chabad.org.

Jacobson described the moment as a reminder that opportunities for spiritual growth can come at any stage of life.

Branstad served a record 22 years as Iowa’s governor over multiple terms and later served as U.S. ambassador to China before retiring from public service.