Thoughts from an unforgettable homecoming Shabbat.

(Courtesy of Nevut) What to expect? Is it too early? Maybe the chayalim are not ready for this?

These were some of the thoughts swirling through my mind as we approached last Shabbat, planning for a first-ever homecoming Shabbat for chayalim returning from the Gaza war.

But these were not just any chayalim. These were brave young men and women who gave up the comforts of their homes and lives in America and risked their lives to fight for Eretz Yisrael. They are known as lone soldiers because they are literally all alone on and off the battlefield, navigating unfamiliar turf without the assistance of their families.

We arrived in Teaneck on Friday afternoon and started what would be one of the most inspiring Shabbats of our lives. Everything feels like a blur now, but we could not have asked for a more friendly or more welcoming community than Teaneck.

If one phrase could capture the mood, it would be We Are One!

Shabbat started with spirited singing and dancing at Rinat Yisrael at Kabbalat Shabbat. The soldiers were welcomed like guests of honor with the entire shul joining in the celebration. At the community meal that followed, everyone felt like family, talking, reminiscing and just enjoying each other’s company. The heartfelt tisch capped off the night and uplifted everyone.

On Shabbat morning, we joined Bnai Yeshurun for davening and were welcomed again with open arms. One poignant moment came when all the lone soldiers were honored at the recitation of the Mi Shebeirach for Tzahal. There was palpable emotion as they prayed for the safety and wellbeing of their comrades still on the battlefield.

Many women attended the afternoon roundtable with our Warrior Women, who served as lone soldiers or whose spouse served. Their raw emotion brought out laughter, tears and shock. The room was packed to capacity, but you could’ve heard a pin drop as three brave women spoke with indescribable passion and emotion.

Seuda shlishit took place at Keter Torah with several soldiers offering their personal reflections from the battlefield. Finally, the weekend ended with a warm melava malka and kumzitz where they spoke again about their experiences on the battle front. The chayalim left with an incredible sense of belonging after experiencing the unbridled warmth of Teaneck.

Kol Hakavod to the three shuls that participated: Rinat Yisrael, Bnai Yeshurun and Keter Torah and their respective rabbis, as well as the Norman and Mozorosky families for hosting the gatherings. Nevut is planning to bring the homecoming program to other shuls in our area and to other communities to spread awareness about the challenges facing our brave lone soldiers. To learn more about Nevut’s mission visit nevut.org or email [email protected]