Israel
Dear friends,
As October approaches, we are aware of the ways our hearts and minds are turning to the one year anniversary of the October 7 attacks in Israel. Sadly, this was not just one moment in time, but a still unfolding situation that weighs heavy on each of us, the Jewish community, and the world at large. Unspeakable horrors of that day continue to haunt us. The death toll in the ensuing conflict brings us pain. Whereas one year later we should feel like our grief has waned, it has only increased.
There will be many ways to mourn as the commemoration date gets closer. We understand that different people have different needs at this moment. Below, you will find a schedule of gathering opportunities - some large, some small. We hope that you’ll seek out the space that feels most supportive to you.
We will also be remembering October 7 in various ways throughout the High Holy Days. That said, the magnitude of the day is too large to capture in just one ritual or one prayer. We hope, therefore, that you’ll see all the events below as the many ways we are trying to find a path through this difficult valley of the shadow of death. May God shepherd us through this darkness, and may we find comfort with one another. We continue to pray for a return of the hostages, an end to this terrible war, and a lasting peace.
L'Shalom,
Rabbi Mara and Cantor Jenna
Sunday, Oct 6
Kesher Parents Sharing Space - 9:30-10:00 am (adults only)
Join Rabbi Mara and Cantor Jenna after Community Time to share thoughts and feelings as Kesher parents. Kesher students will be saying an age-appropriate prayer for peace and healing for Israel and the Middle East during community time. All Kesher parents are invited, even if your student does not attend Kesher on Sunday.
Commemorating October 7: A Woodlands Gathering - 5:00-5:30 pm (for Woodlands members only)
We will gather together in an intimate setting to share in music and prayers of remembrance. Note: We will be speaking openly about the events of October 7. This may not be appropriate for younger teens and children.
We Remember, We Stand in Unity: a Westchester county commemoration - 7:30-9:00 pm
This in-person event is currently at capacity. You can still partake in this county-wide event by Zooming in. Register here.
Monday, Oct 7
7th Grade Students and Parents Gathering - 5:30-6:00 pm
For 7th graders and their parents only - age appropriate reflections and remembering together. Parents are invited to attend, but it is not mandatory. Academy Students and Parents Gathering - 7:30-8:00 pm For Academy students and their parents only - age appropriate reflections and remembering together. Parents are invited to attend, but it is not mandatory.
A Communal Remembrance: October 7 and a Year of War - 7:00-8:00 pm (Shames JCC, 371 S. Broadway, Tarrytown)
Our Woodlands clergy will join with the clergy of other Rivertowns synagogues to acknowledge all of our losses, including the loss of innocent lives across faiths, ethnicities, and nationalities; the loss of physical and emotional security felt in the Middle East, the U.S., and around the world; the loss of relationships across differences; and more. Registration is strictly enforced. Click here to register.
Thurs, Oct 24
Simchat Torah Yizkor - 9:00-10:00 am (in person and on Zoom)
The October 7 attacks occurred on the holiday of Shemini Atzeret-Simchat Torah. We will therefore commemorate the official one year yahrzeit at our Simchat Torah Yizkor service with some special readings and prayers.