The Jewish Center of Teaneck and Bergen B’Yachad unite hundreds across Bergen County.
This past Sunday night, hundreds of Jews from across Bergen County gathered at the Jewish Center of Teaneck for the premiere screening of “Crazy Diamond: The Story of Yaron Shai.” Organized by the Jewish Center of Teaneck in partnership with Bergen B’Yachad, the event was an evening of inspiration, reflection and unity. Attendees from over 20 shuls across Bergen County came together to honor the memory of Yaron Shai, z”l, a hero who sacrificed his life in defense of the Jewish people during the mass terrorist assault against Kerem Shalom on Oct. 7.
The film tells the story of Yaron — not only about his ultimate sacrifice but also about the remarkable life he led. From a young age, Yaron demonstrated a deep connection to something greater than himself. He was a leader, inspiring those around him and bringing out the best in everyone he encountered. His story serves as a powerful reminder of what it means to live with purpose, integrity and a sense of responsibility to others.
While the film highlighted Yaron’s bravery in his final moments, it also focused on the lessons his life had to offer. One of the film’s most profound messages was the importance of recognizing and appreciating the people around us while they are still here. It served as a reminder of how often we wait until someone is gone to reflect on their beautiful qualities. This struck a deep chord, encouraging everyone to take the time to celebrate and cherish those they love while they are still with us.
Another powerful theme of the evening was the idea of sacrifice. The film challenged viewers to ask themselves, “What are we willing to sacrifice in our lives for the greater good?” Whether it’s for our families, our communities or our values, Yaron’s life and legacy reminded the audience of the importance of dedicating ourselves to something larger than themselves.
The evening ended on a poignant note as Yizhar Shai, Yaron’s father, addressed the audience. He not only shared the story of his son but also reflected on a deeply moving connection that arose from the tragedy of Oct. 7. Yizhar recounted the story of Yaron and Shoham Moshe Ben Haroush, two soldiers who fought and died side by side despite coming from vastly different backgrounds. Yaron, raised in one part of Israel, and Shoham from another, stood on opposite ends of the religious and political spectrum. Yet, in their final moments, they were united in their mission to protect the Jewish people.
Yizhar’s words served as a stark reminder that the enemies of the Jewish people do not care about internal differences — whether political, religious, or otherwise. “The terrorists don’t care if you’re on the right or the left; they don’t care about politics or where you pray,” he said. “We have to stay strong and united no matter what.” His heartfelt message underscored the critical importance of Jewish unity, a theme that resonated throughout the evening.
Rabbi Daniel Fridman of the Jewish Center of Teaneck added, “Remembering Yaron Shai, a true hero, is a profound expression of Jewish unity. It brings great comfort to a family knowing that their son will not be forgotten and that his legacy continues to inspire us all.”
The event was made possible thanks to the collaboration of many local shuls that partnered to make the evening a success. Special thanks go to Arzei Darom, Bais Menachem, Beit Medrash of Bergenfield, Beth Aaron, Bnai Yeshurun, Lev Le’Daas, Netivot Shalom, Ohr Saadya, Shaarei Orah, Temple Emeth, and Young Israel of Teaneck. Their participation reflected the strength of Bergen County’s Jewish community and its shared commitment to coming together as one people.
The evening also marked an important milestone in Bergen County’s commitment to Kerem Shalom, where Yaron gave his life defending its residents. As the community continues their mission to raise $1,000,000 to help Kerem Shalom rebuild, the next phase includes dedicating a sports center in Yaron’s memory — a space where people of all backgrounds can come together, transcend their differences, and play toward a common goal. This initiative embodies Yaron’s legacy of unity and shared purpose.
The evening also served as a launchpad for the upcoming unity mission to Kerem Shalom, scheduled for Feb. 18-20. Participants will have the opportunity to tour the site of Yaron’s final battle alongside his family, further strengthening the connection between all of Bergen County’s communities and continuing Yaron’s legacy. Learn more or register for the mission at mizrachi.org/bergencounty.
Through Yaron Shai’s story, those in attendance were reminded of the values that bind us together: our shared heritage, our collective resilience and our responsibility to one another. The evening left a lasting impression on all who participated, inspiring them to carry the lessons of unity, sacrifice and appreciation into their daily lives.
As Hila Shai, Yaron’s mother, so eloquently put it in the film, “We have to live Yaron’s memory and live a good life.” May the memory of Yaron Shai inspire us to strengthen our connections to each other and to Hashem, and may his legacy continue to serve as a source of light and unity for our community.
Dr. Josh Schwarzbaum founded Bergen B’Yachad with the mission of uniting the Jews across Bergen County. To learn more about upcoming Jewish unity events or to join the Whatsapp group, visit www.bergenbyachad.com
