In 1973, Yom Kippur fell on October 6th. In the secular calendar, this past Friday marked 50 years to the day since that fateful day; the most devastating event in the history of the State of Israel. That war lasted three weeks. Two days ago at 6:30 a.m. on Shabbat morning, Hamas attacked Israel. In less than 48 hours, over 700 people had been killed. It is painful to say that in our lifetime, the Jewish people have lived through what is now the most devastating two days in the history of the State of Israel.
These last two days have brought shocking news and images. The losses are severe. So many were injured. Many civilians remain in danger. The situation is precarious and difficult to comprehend, leaving the Jewish community shocked and angry. So many families are in pain and mourning the loss of loved ones. Hamas has violated every convention of war. There were no uniforms, they attacked civilians and used human shields. “This is not about being right or left, whatever the politics,” said Rabbi Tully Harcsztark, principal. “This is evil behavior and we must respond with strength. This is a time to join together in achdut, in a spirit of unity.”
On Monday morning, SAR High School students and faculty gathered as a school community, connecting with each other and with their brothers and sisters in Israel. In the wake of this national calamity, they gathered in prayer—prayer for healing, prayer for rescue, for the success of Israeli soldiers, prayer that their leaders have the wisdom and strength to see the Jewish people through this most difficult time. And it was a time to express their faith and confidence—faith in God and confidence in the strength of the State of Israel.
During the program, former SAR Judaic Studies Teacher Yossi Ben Harush addressed students and faculty live from Israel, sharing his personal insight on what was happening there and encouraging everyone to practice the words of the famous Yom Kippur prayer, “Unetaneh Tokef,” that focuses on teshuva, tefillah and tzedaka (repentance, prayer and charity).
Over the past few hours, students have been mobilizing in many ways. SAR administration and faculty are proud of these students who intuit the vital importance of acting during this time of need. During lunchtime, there was a moving kumzitz and letter writing program. These letters will be delivered to soldiers who are currently serving. There was also a special afternoon prayer service dedicated to the safety of siblings of current students who are serving in the IDF. Additional programs and projects that show support for Israel and the Jewish people, including the collection of supplies for The Lone Soldier Center, will be implemented in the coming days.
