This past week, Heichal talmidim had the opportunity to hear a series of passionate and meaningful presentations in honor of Yom HaZikaron. Rabbi Avi Rosalimsky addressed the talmidim, emphasizing not only the importance of remembering the fallen but also the responsibility of keeping their legacy alive. He spoke about the significance of living Al Kiddush Hashem in our everyday lives. Following Rabbi Rosalimsky’s remarks, freshman talmid Hillel Kornwasser presented his video project titled In Their Honor. The video featured interviews with both parents and students, who shared how they plan to commemorate and honor those who were lost protecting Am Yisroel.

Yom Ha’Atzmaut was ushered in with powerful words by Heichal Menahel, Rabbi Dovid Goldman, who spoke about the centrality and power of Eretz Yisroel in our lives. The program continued with an insightful and eye-opening presentation by Rabbi Yitz Novak, National Rabbinic Director at AIPAC, and a Heichal parent. Rabbi Novak, who oversees the organization’s rabbinic engagement and outreach efforts, addressed some of the complex challenges and questions facing the Jewish community today, particularly regarding the current culture on college campuses and how to thoughtfully respond to difficult questions about Eretz Yisroel.

The session, moderated by Rabbi Rosalimsky, offered purposeful and meaningful dialogue and gave talmidim valuable tools to navigate current issues with clarity and confidence. It was an incredibly informative and impactful program and left talmidim with a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made for Am Yisroel and the ongoing importance of our commitment to Eretz Yisroel.