Singing for Shalom: A concert of hope and remembrance

Monday, October 7, 6 pm, Temple Emanuel

Nearly a year has passed since the tragic events of October 7, 2023, a day that will forever be seared into the collective memory of our people. On that fateful day, Hamas brutally murdered a multitude of people. Families were torn apart, as loved ones were kidnapped, tortured, raped, and robbed of the fundamental human right to live in peace. As members of this ancient and resilient people, we have stood in unshakeable solidarity, yearning for a day when peace will no longer be a distant dream but a reality. Since that fateful day, the world has been watching the Middle East closely.


This is why the idea of gathering the entire Tidewater Jewish community, known for its unity and strength, was born.


Using music to pray, ask, demand, and continue dreaming of a true and lasting peace is one of the many ways we can contribute our grain of sand. For this reason, the community will unite at Temple Emanuel for a Concert for Peace. This event will featuring a diverse program of music, prayers, and reflections led by rabbis, cantors, community choirs, and leaders from the entire Tidewater Jewish community. The memory of those lost will be honored and a commitment to a lasting peace in Israel will be renewed.


But this concert is about more than remembrance – it is a chance to reaffirm a shared mission – ensuring that the memory of the victims remains alive and that work for a peaceful future continues, even in the face of unimaginable pain and injustice. Memory is not only a tribute to those who suffered but also a responsibility to carry for future generations.


May this gathering stand as a beacon of hope, inspiring all to work towards a future where respect and coexistence prevail over hatred and violence.


During this concert, a fundraising campaign to send aid to Israel in response to the ongoing needs created by this devastating war will take place.


Am Israel Chai
#BringThemHomeNow
Shanah Tovah Umetukah



Representatives from various congregations and organizations are joining forces for this special evening, featuring performances and reflections by:

  • Alberto Mirchuk, Chazan from Buenos Aires, Argentina
  • Rabbi Ari Oliszewski from Temple Emanuel
  • Cantor Jen Rueben from Ohef Sholom Temple
  • Rabbi Roz Mandelberg from Ohef Sholom Temple
  • Cantor Jim Hibberd and the Choir from Congregation Beth Chaverim
  • Cantor David Proser from KBH
  • Cantor Elihu Flax from Beth El
  • Rabbi David Bockman from Beth El
  • Rabbi Michael Panitz from Temple Israel
  • Rabbi Israel Zoberman, from Temple Lev Tikvah
  • Emily Patyuk (Shinshin from Israel)