A Message from Our Clergy: Sunday May 5 Yom HaShoah Commemoration Ceremony with Survivor Dr. Aliza Erber
05/01/2024 06:30:43 PM
May1
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Dear Beth El Family,
As Yom HaShoah approaches, we must take a moment to acknowledge how different this year feels from previous years. Every year it’s important to set aside time to reflect on the millions of Jewish lives lost during one of the darkest chapters in human history. But it is particularly relevant following the deadly attacks by Hamas on October 7th, which claimed the lives of 1200 people (the most Jews killed in a single day since the Shoah) and took over 240 people hostage. This year, the lessons of the Holocaust resonate even more deeply. Such acts of violence serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked hatred and bigotry, underscoring the importance of standing firm against all forms of antisemitism. Yom HaShoah serves as a solemn reminder of the atrocities committed against our people and underscores the importance of continuing to remember and honor the victims.
The Holocaust stands as a stark testament to the depths of human cruelty, resulting in the systematic genocide of six million Jews, including one and a half million children. The enormity of this tragedy is difficult to comprehend, yet it is our solemn duty to ensure that future generations understand its profound impact on Jewish history and culture. One of the most meaningful ways to honor the memory of those who perished during the Holocaust is by listening to the stories of survivors. We have a responsibility to bear witness to their firsthand experiences and ensure that their voices are never silenced. As the number of Holocaust survivors dwindles with each passing year, as have our number of attendees at these ceremonies, it becomes increasingly imperative that we prioritize hearing their testimonies and preserving their legacies for future generations.
This year, we welcome Dr. Aliza Erber who will share her survival story with us. We will begin with Mincha at 6:00 PM on Sunday, May 5th in the Den, followed by a brief tekes-ceremony to honor the memories of all those who died. Dr. Erber will then speak, and we will conclude with Maariv at 7:50 PM. We hope that you will join us in honoring the memory of the Holocaust victims and utilize this opportunity to bear witness to the testimonials of those who lived through it firsthand.
