Two years ago, the worst loss of Jewish life since the Holocaust unfolded on Israel’s southern border and began an all-out war on terror. The 30,000 Israelis who attended the national October 7 memorial event for the over 1,200 people killed and 250 kidnapped in the October 7 massacre repeated “we will remember” to remind themselves and the world of the message the Jewish people have held to since the Holocaust: “Never again!”
The Jerusalem Post reports that the national event included musical performances from some of Israel’s foremost artists, and hosted former hostages, hostage families, and families of those who fell on and have fallen since that horrific day.
“We are still on the journey, with 48 hostages who have not yet returned, and with families who wait, breathe, and pray for that moment,” former hostage Omer Shem Tov told the crowd. “The peace we once dreamed of is still far away, but the unity, compassion, and human spark that have been revealed here are the foundation upon which we can rebuild.”
He thanked the heroes who fought and died for Israel, the soldiers who continue to protect the country, and everyone “who chooses light even when it’s easier to surrender to darkness.”
The strength of victims’ families after two years of pain also continues to be acknowledged as a source of inspiration and empathy. Event host Tzachi Hanegbi called them “the invisible wounded,” and like the victims of Hamas on October 7, they are among the thousands that we must also never forget.
Galit Dan eulogized her daughter, Noya, who was murdered at the age of 13, and her mother, Carmela Dan, who was also murdered. “Two years that you are no longer here. Two years since that cursed day when Kibbutz Nir Oz became a killing field, and the entire border area turned into a battlefield. Two years since the day I became both a bereaved mother and an orphaned daughter.”
“Because it’s October again – and I pray: no more bereaved mothers. No more dead.”
Yet, there is hope as Israel and her people mourn. The resolve to see the remaining hostages come home is as strong as it was the day after the attack. And the people of Israel want to begin rebuilding and healing. With hostage release deals being discussed and Hamas’ influence becoming weaker, the dream of shalom, peace, feels within reach.
The Fellowship is honored to have united both Jews and Christians with over 1.5 million Israeli flags planted this year as part of our second annual Flags of Fellowship. It’s about more than just remembering and grieving; it’s about a movement that fosters unity and provides hope.
