Amudim

This week we marked Yom HaZikaron with a series of profoundly poignant and moving experiences. Beginning with a stirring ceremony at Binyanei HaUmah, the day carried a profound sense of memory and meaning. We stood at the tank memorial in Latrun, and walked through the battle-scarred grounds of Castel, connecting not only to the stories of the past, but to the enduring cost of our present

Today's powerful launch to the final stretch of the year began with the annual Yom HaShoah siren, grounding us in our shared history and collective destiny, which are themes that will shape this entire trimester.

From there, we made our way to the Kotel, where we gathered and davened, held by the weight and continuity of Jewish history. With Rabbi Goldstein and Brie, we continued on to Martef HaShoah, a haunting and sacred space in the Old City, created by survivors themselves.

Back at the Midrasha, Dr. Goldstein guided us through the layered reality of dehumanization, both the cruelty imposed from without and the erosion that can take root within. She challenged us to consider how, even now, we are called to respond: to choose dignity over despair, identity over erasure, and a deepened Jewish self-awareness over quiet retreat.

An incredibly powerful Yom HaShoah, and a meaningful beginning to what promises to be a rich and significant zman.

Purim 5786 was one we’ll cherish forever! 🎭

After Megillah reading, we kicked off the night with a joyful chagiga. We celebrated a Siyum Masechet Megillah, shared an uplifting seuda filled with Torah, ruach, and song, and laughed through unforgettable student and staff shpeils. Even the bomb shelter became a place of celebration.

The simcha, laughter, and connection made this Purim truly special.
Purim Sameach! 🩵

Sadnat Yisrael 5786!