Community members gathered on Thursday, Feb. 25 for a poignant ceremony led by Tidewater’s Shinshinim, Danielle Hartman and Emily Patyuk, to commemorate more than 500 days of war in Israel and to honor the countless lives lost since October 7, 2023. The ceremony also paid tribute to the hostages whose lives were stolen by Hamas.
The event reflected the community’s shared heartbreak, struggles, resilience, and unity throughout this prolonged conflict. There was not a dry eye in the room as the names of the 59 hostages who remain in Hamas captivity were read. The morning also included prayers for the hostages’ safe return, as well as for the IDF soldiers fighting to protect Israel. Patyuk sang Shir La’Maalot (A Song of Ascents).
As the war continues, the call for solidarity with Israel and support for one another must be amplified. Through unity, the present is strengthened and a brighter future for Tidewater’s Jewish community, the Jewish people, and the State of Israel will be built.
For more information and resources on the Israel-Hamas War, go to JewishVA.org/IsraelResources or contact Nofar Trem at NTrem@UJFT.org.