Yeshurun: Yom Hazikaron & Yom Haatzmaut
Event
There was even greater interest than usual in Yeshurun’s ‘Open House’ Yom Hazikaron ceremony and educational programme, which invited the Jewish community of South Manchester to join together for Israel’s national day of remembrance. Almost 200 people, 3 Rabbis and an additional Chazan attended a film screening, listened to visiting speakers from Israel and later, when the atmosphere turned from one of solemnity to jubilation for Yom Haatzmaut, socialised over a meal and enjoyed musical entertainment and dancing. The day fostered a closer connection to Israel and each other for all involved.
Objectives
To provide a welcoming space for local Israelis who don’t often come to shul, but like to feel part of a community for Yom Hazikaron
To unite the Jewish community of Manchester around Israel’s national day of remembrance
Evaluation from Tamar Frieze
‘Our guests included two visiting Rabbis from other communities and one additional Chazan, who jointly led our ceremony. This coming together of the wider South Manchester community was for us a big success in itself, and to be together for Yom Hazikaron was incredibly moving. It was a professional set-up and impressed a lot of prospective new members. It’s unusual to get so many visitors to our shul, but because of the nature of the event – which included a film screening and educational content – it brought in a lot of interest.’
Participant Feedback:
- Throughout this moving event, I really felt a sense of community and solidarity
- It was gratifying to see so many people at this event and to spread the message of Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut to a wider audience
- I gained further insight into the meaning and significance of Yom Hazikaron, in particular
