A Time to Cry, A Time to Dance

Dear Member,

As Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah approaches, it’s clear that this year will be unlike any we’ve experienced before. Each of us has endured different challenges over the past twelve months and therefore, we need to show sensitivity and remain mindful of the pain that we’ve felt and continue to feel, whilst still embracing the joy and hope that these chagim bring.

We’ve been considering how to appropriately celebrate this year so that our collective joy, strength, and unity will shine through as we celebrate the light of the Jewish people, even amid challenges.

We were inspired by the way we mark Yom Hazikaron (Israel Memorial Day) and then move into celebrating Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel Independence Day). This year, we’ll mark the anniversary of the attacks on Shemini Atzeret, giving us the opportunity to honour those who were killed on that day and since, before moving into Simchat Torah where we’ll dance with our new Torah covers and send our prayers and hopes for our hostages to return home and for a peaceful year ahead.

On Erev Shemini Atzeret, 23rd October – some may wish to light a yahrzeit candle, before Yom Tov begins, to be alight over Shemini Atzeret, as a mark of respect and remembrance for all those who lost their lives last Shemini Atzeret and subsequently.

On Shemini Atzeret, 24th October – we will mark the anniversary of 7th October by reciting a special Azkarah (memorial prayer) in memory of all those who were murdered on that day and have fallen since. As a community we will include their names. This will be said along with the memorial prayers for the Martyrs of the Holocaust and those who have fallen in Israel’s wars, before we begin Yizkor, so that even those who may be leaving Shul for Yizkor, will be able to remain and hear this.

On Simchat Torah, 24th October (Evening) In the spirit of this celebration, along with communities around the world, we’ll dedicate each Hakafa as follows:

• First Hakafa: In honour of Hashem, the Torah, and all those who dedicate their lives to Torah study, bringing blessings to Am Yisrael
• Second Hakafa: To honour our heroic soldiers and security forces, and their families, who protect our people and our land with unparalleled self-sacrifice
• Third Hakafa: For the complete recovery of the sick and wounded, and for the safe return of captives to their families
• Fourth Hakafa: In memory of all the holy souls taken from us, especially those who lost their lives on Simchat Torah 5784. May their memories continue to inspire us
• Fifth Hakafa: For the residents of the north and south, displaced by war, and for all Jews in the diaspora to return home
• Sixth Hakafa: To honour the unity of Am Yisrael, both in Israel and the Diaspora – our strength, volunteerism, and unwavering faith in Hashem and the righteousness of our path
• Seventh Hakafa: We will turn this into a “Kumzits” style Hakafa. In anticipation of the ultimate redemption, for the rebuilding of the Temple, and the fulfilment of the prophetic words of comfort and peace

On Simchat Torah 25th October (Day) – we’ll dance with our new Torah covers and save the final, seventh Hakafa for songs in support and love of Israel as suggested by the Chief Rabbi.

Dancing together this Simchat Torah won’t just be an expression of happiness, but also a demonstration of our unwavering connection to Jewish people in Israel and around the world, reminding us that no matter the circumstances, we’re strengthened by our unity.

For Kol HaNe’arim all children will be welcomed to gather under the tallit on Simchat Torah morning to receive their blessing in the traditional way. We will also make a special prayer for those who wish to be blessed with children.

We appreciate what an emotional and challenging time the next few days and weeks are going to be for us all and our Rabbinic Team are available to offer support and encouragement to any of our members who may wish to seek assistance or guidance.

We’d like to encourage everyone to come along, to first commemorate this tragic anniversary and then to sing, dance and to join together in a wonderfully moving moment of communal unity as a powerful signal that Am Yisrael Chai.

Wishing you all chag sameach
Rabbinic Team and Honorary Officers