October 7 has indelibly left its mark in our memories and in our hearts. We remember where we were, what we were doing, and the overwhelming sense of horror and loss on what should have been a day of celebration and joy, Simchat Torah. The tragic loss of so many Israeli lives, the hostages taken, and the displacement of families weighs heavily on us. In the aftermath, we’ve witnessed a rise in antisemitism globally, mass evacuations in northern Israel, and the heartbreaking sacrifice of hundreds of soldiers.
As we observe this solemn anniversary of the worst violence against Jews since the Holocaust, our mission is to bear witness, to remember, and to mourn. We will find opportunities to address each of these challenges—demanding the safe return of our hostages, confronting antisemitism at home and abroad, and healing divisions within our community. A time for healing and rebuilding will come—God willing, soon.
The events of and following October 7 were both shocking and horrific, leaving many of us in deep grief, perhaps in anger, and in a state of identity turmoil. It has led some of us to reassess our worldview and grapple with unfamiliar emotions—fear, betrayal, and a profound sense of uncertainty. This year, many of us may feel a sense of dissonance when celebrating. Finding joy amid so much pain and loss can be challenging. Here are a few simple additions suggested by OneTable to help acknowledge our sorrow:
Light an extra candle
Consider lighting an extra candle as a symbol of remembrance and solidarity. This candle can honor those who are no longer with us, those currently experiencing loss and pain, and serve as a guiding light of hope amid the darkness.
Add an empty chair
Place an empty chair at the table to honor the hostages still held in Gaza who were captured a year ago on October 7. This gesture acknowledges their absences and invites reflection on their memories or on their safe return.
Set out an empty cup
Position an empty cup at the table as a symbol of the unfulfilled and the lost. This can serve as a reminder to pause and reflect on the voids we carry and the resilience we seek to cultivate. These additions can create a space for meaningful connection and help balance the joy of the occasion with an honest acknowledgment of the sorrow that fills the world right now.
In celebrating Rosh Hashanah, we pray for renewal and growth. We reflect on this past year while looking forward to a new year filled with peace and recovery, longing for calm and tranquility for all in Israel and within our Jewish community. During the Ten Days of Repentance, before Yom Kippur, we are called to introspection: to reflect deeply, to seek forgiveness from those we may have wronged, to extend forgiveness to others, to perform acts of kindness and charity, to reconcile, and to strive for personal growth.
The High Holidays season, occurring over three weeks this October, is some of the most beautiful, special, and sacred time on the Jewish calendar, rich with symbols, rituals, and traditions. It is an opportunity to process our emotions, engage in discussion, and share experiences that may bring clarity, comfort, and relief.
We are fortunate to have a caring community, and I hope you find solace in knowing that you are not alone. May this year be better than the last, and may we find comfort in navigating it together.
Shana Tovah U’mevurechet.