Yom Hazikaron and Yom Haztzmaut

This week, we observed Yom Hazikaron and celebrated Yom Haatzmaut.

Our High School students partnered with the 7th grade to put on a meaningful Yom Hazikaron program for 4th-11th grade. At the end of the ceremony, Rabbi Lesack shared the words which were expressed by President Reuven Rivlin at the Western Wall the evening before:

“For more than 68 years, we have been fighting the same war, the war for our independence — an ongoing campaign that changes its face and form. It is a painful battle that perpetually adds fresh scars to the body and spirit of this ancient and robust people. Inherent in the stones behind me, the stones of the Western Wall, the “wall of tears and hope,” is the testament that we are not people of war. We do not go into battle hungry for war, but with the desire for peace, with a lust for life, and a hatred of death. But we realize the bitter and horrible truth: there is a terrible price — which you have paid — to be a nation determined to protect its citizens and its independence. We will stand strong against anyone who dares to put our resolve to the test in any way.

You, who did not have the chance to finish bestowing love…It is thanks to you that we can love. You, who did not manage to see your children grow up. It is thanks to you that our streets are filled with life, with boys and girls playing. You, who did not manage to fulfill your dreams. It is because of you that we can dream.”

A big thank you to Morah Lydia, Morah Eilat and Mrs. Dahoah for their help in crafting the program.

Yesterday, as a High School, we celebrated Israel’s independence with a special program at the Sandler Center.

We watched the film, Beneath the Helmet, which tells the story of 5 soldiers (ages 18-21) who have made their transitions from high school into the IDF. Thank you to Jerusalem U for giving us the opportunity to screen the film with our students.

Following the film, we had the honor of hearing from Colonel (Res.) Bentzi Gruber, who is also the founder of the non-profit “Ethics in the Field.” Colonel Gruber spoke to students about the reality of being a soldier in the IDF and fighting against terrorists and others fighting against Israel. He used real-life examples, along with video and stories, to highlight the decisions which everyday soldiers have to make and the extent to which the IDF defends Israel while also honoring the lives of innocent civilians. Thank you to RHS parent, Laura Sherry, and to JNF, for giving us the opportunity to hear from Colonel Gruber.

Our program ended with an Israeli meal of falafel, pita, hummus, fries and salad.

Am Yisrael Chai!

Rabbi Lesack, HS Principal