It is difficult to grasp that this year marks the second yahrzeit of October 7, a day that has left an indelible mark on our hearts, our community, and Jewish history. We remember where we were, what we were doing, and the overwhelming sense of horror and loss we felt on what should have been a day of joy and celebration, Simchat Torah.
To mark this solemn anniversary, please join us on October 16 at the JCC as we come together as a community to commemorate and remember. We will be hosting a special photo exhibit, “Humans of October 7th,” at 6 p.m. featuring the powerful work of guest speaker and photojournalist Erez Kaganovitz. He will talk with the audience starting at 7. Through his lens and storytelling, we will bear witness to the human stories behind the headlines and honor those whose lives were forever changed. The theme of hope, resilience, and rebuilding captures not only the stories shared in this powerful exhibit, but also the spirit with which we continue to honor the past while working toward healing.
The memory of that day, the tragic loss of so many innocent lives, the kidnapping of hostages, the displacement of families continues to weigh heavily on us. In the months and years since, we’ve witnessed a dramatic rise in antisemitism worldwide, evacuations in northern Israel, and the heartbreaking sacrifice of hundreds of Israeli soldiers. The pain, grief, and fear from that time still reverberate in our personal and collective lives.
As we observe this anniversary marking the worst violence against Jews since the Holocaust, we commit to bearing witness, to remembering, and to mourning. And we continue to confront the challenges that persist, demanding the safe return of all hostages, standing up to antisemitism at home and abroad, and working to repair internal fractures within our community.
We continue to pray for a time of healing, rebuilding, and peace.
For many of us, this time of year brings complex and conflicting emotions. We may still be grappling with grief, anger, confusion, and a deep sense of vulnerability. Some of us have found our sense of identity shaken. Others are struggling to reconcile the joyful traditions of this season with the pain that lingers.
This year, it may feel especially difficult to celebrate. Finding moments of joy amidst so much sorrow is not easy, but it is sacred work. To help acknowledge our pain while embracing the meaning of the season, we offer a couple of simple yet powerful additions you might include in your observance:
• Light an Extra Candle. As a symbol of remembrance and solidarity, this candle can honor those we’ve lost and those still suffering and offer a glimmer of hope in the darkness.
• Add an Empty Chair. Place an empty chair at the table to honor the hostages still held in Gaza who were captured two years ago on October 7. This gesture acknowledges their absence and invites reflection on their memories and their safe return.
These small acts can create space for meaningful reflection and connection, allowing us to honor both the pain of the past and the hope for the future.
At Rosh Hashanah, we reflected on the year behind us and prayed for a year ahead filled with peace, safety, and renewal. As we head into Yom Kippur, we are called to look inward—to examine our hearts, to seek and offer forgiveness, to perform acts of kindness and justice, and to recommit ourselves to personal and communal growth.
The High Holidays season, unfolding over these weeks in October, is one of the most sacred times on the Jewish calendar. It is rich with rituals, prayers, and traditions that can help us make sense of our emotions and reconnect with one another. It is a time to ask questions, to share stories, and to find clarity, comfort, and even moments of peace.
We are fortunate to be part of a caring, compassionate community, and I hope you find strength in knowing that you are not alone.
May this year bring healing, strength, and peace. May we carry one another through whatever comes next and may we always remember together.