Friends, one year ago today, the time of our rejoicing on Simchat Torah was erased by fear, shock and devastating loss when Hamas launched its barbaric massacre on Israel. As we pause to mark the secular anniversary of October 7th, we take time to mourn and to reflect on all that has happened since. 101 hostages remain in captivity – 365 days –countless families shattered, lives lost, and Israel is under renewed assault facing conditions that are changing rapidly.

This is a time for mourning and remembrance – a time to honor those we have lost, to uplift and cheer those who are still hurting, to pray for the strength and courage to hope, and to stand together as one community in solidarity with Jews around the world. The weight of this moment may feel almost too heavy to bear and yet we persevere – we

must. This year has tested all of us, especially our beloved community in Israel, and yet, we remain a resilient people.

If you are in need of comfort and community, I encourage you to attend the Federation Memorial Tribute Ceremony at 7:30pm this evening in Westport. Information can be found in our most recent edition of Chailites and on the Federation website. You must register in advance to be admitted. Please also join us on Kol Nidre at 7:30pm Friday

October 11th and at Yizkor on Saturday October 12th at 4:45pm where we will again offer prayers of remembrance for the families and lives destroyed because of that horrific attack. You may also wish to visit this website: https://www.remembertenseven.org/ (We Remember Them) where you will be given a specific person for whom to light a candle in remembrance and the opportunity to receive updates.

May we all emerge from this day of sadness and reflection with an even stronger sense of purpose and cohesion as a community.

With prayers for a sustainable, just and enduring peace for all peoples of the region.

Shanah Tovah v’G’mar Chatimah Tovah – May you be sealed for goodness and blessing in the year ahead.

Cantor Harriet Dunkerley