Jewish and Druze bereaved families gathered on Sunday evening at the Sea of Galilee to light the first Chanukah candle together. The event was part of a nationwide campaign to show support and appreciation for more than 1,850 bereaved families.
The series of special Chanukah events is being held by Hayeladim Shelanu (Our Children), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting bereaved families across Israel with year-round programs, emotional support and community-building.
The candle-lighting is set to continue on Monday evening in the south of the country for families in the kibbutzim, moshavim and “Gaza envelope” communities that were directly affected by the Hamas invasion and massacre on Oct. 7, 2023, the organization said in a statement.
Quoting Hayeladim Shelanu founder Joseph Waks, the statement added, “The holidays are the most painful days for these families, and it is deeply humbling to stand among such special souls. Thanks to friends around the world, we can show them how much we care and how much we love them. These families are the modern-day Maccabees, inspiring all of us with their courage.”
The Chanukah events will continue around the country throughout the holiday, to uplift families who have lost parents, children, brothers and sisters, the nonprofit said.
Shira Mark, who is coordinating the organization’s Chanukah events in the north, shared that this campaign “is personal. I lost my father and brothers, and helping these families is how I continue their love.”
Hayeladim Shelanu added that this is its third running Chanukah campaign for bereaved families.
“This year feels more important than ever—26 months since Oct. 7. We want [the families] to know we have not forgotten them, and that we will never forget the heroes who fell. We cannot fathom their pain, but we can give them love, support and moments of light,” the NGO stated.
