On October 7, 2023, our world was forever changed by the brutal attack on Israel by Hamas, leaving our hearts shattered. One year later, our community came together to mark this solemn anniversary, to remember those who were taken from us, to hold each other close, and to draw strength from being united in community.
At the heart of our gathering were the words of our Rabbis, readings written post-10.07, and the voices of our Cantors, who led us in prayer, song, and reflection. As Rabbi Nancy Wechsler noted, the gathering began with memory and gently moved into hope. Over 700 people—both in person and online—joined us on the west steps of the Capitol to honor the memories of those who were killed, to stand in solidarity with one another during this difficult time, and to express our hopes for the safe return of the 101 hostages still held in Gaza. We heard stories that brought us closer to the lives that were tragically cut short, and we remembered them not just as victims but as vibrant souls who were loved and cherished.
On Monday, I shared at the steps, “Memory is the thread that has sustained us through thousands of years of history, through unbearable loss, unimaginable horrors, joyful moments, big accomplishments, and across vast distances. Memory has the power to bring back scents, sounds, laughter, and joy, wrapping us in an embrace that keeps the souls of our loved ones alive and their love present.” That is what made Brenda Wolfson’s speech so meaningful and impactful. As the grandmother of Yannai Kaminka (z”l), she shared heartfelt snapshots from Yannai’s life, giving us a glimpse into the amazing person and soldier he was, the beautiful relationship they had, and the future that was stolen from him.
Rabbi Mona Alfi shared that night, “In Proverbs it is written, ‘Ner Adonai nishmat Adam – The human soul is the light of God.’ (Proverbs 20:27). Each and every person contains within themselves a spark of holiness, a spark of the Divine that brings light into the world. When one of those lights is extinguished, the world feels darker and colder.” That night, we lit up the Capitol steps with our presence.
This event was more than a commemoration—it was a testament to our community’s strength and resilience, to the light we can create when we come together. As I stood there, surrounded by our community, I found myself reflecting on the future.
I want to build with you a rich and engaging future for our community. You and I can do it—we can do it. And as our ancient Jewish wisdom teaches, we should do it together, because “A community is too heavy to carry alone” (Deuteronomy Rabbah 1:10). Join me on November 10 for the Federation’s Mitzvah Day, come to our first PJ Library Story Time on December 26, and let’s celebrate Hanukkah together! Read our VOICE, check our E-Voice, and join me on December 12 for our Annual Meeting, where your voice can be heard as a member of the Federation. I ask you, if you can, to make a financial contribution now to help build the Jewish community we both want.
As we approach Yom Kippur, may you have a meaningful day of atonement, may you find yourself surrounded by love, may you be inscribed in the Book of Life, and may all the hostages return home safely.
Mariela Socolovsky
CEO, Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region