Orphans who lost parents during October 7 war celebrate joint Kotel bar mitzvah

In a moving display of resilience and community spirit, over 125 boys, many of whom have tragically lost parents during the recent conflict and other difficult circumstances, celebrated their bar mitzvah together at the Western Wall. This joint ceremony, organized by the dedicated charity Colel Chabad, offered a beacon of hope and a much-needed celebration for these young individuals and their families.

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We have experienced a lot of loss and pain over the last five years, so this event is a blessing for my son, giving him a wonderful celebration during this very special time.

The boys, some as young as 12, received new tefillin before being called to the Torah, a significant milestone in their Jewish upbringing. The day culminated in a gala dinner at Jerusalem's Binyanei Hauma International Convention Center, providing a joyous occasion to mark their transition into adulthood amidst profound personal loss.

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From too young an age, you have been exposed to immense pain and have had to grow up too quickly. All of you have grown out of hardship; you have learned to grow amidst the pain and alongside it. You are not only coming of age, you are also overcoming – and each and every one of you is a hero.

President Isaac Herzog's presence underscored the national significance of the event. He delivered a powerful message of strength, acknowledging the immense pain these boys have endured at such a young age. "You are not only coming of age, you are also overcoming – and each and every one of you is a hero," he stated, offering words of encouragement and pride from the heart of the nation.

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Today, together with the fragmentation, we rejoice with you from the depths of our hearts. We are proud of you, and we wish that you will continue to grow, to rejoice, to flourish, to dream, to dare, and to succeed.

Colel Chabad's long-term support for these families, offering financial aid, tutoring, and counseling, highlights the deep commitment to ensuring these children feel supported and cherished. Rabbi Sholom Duchman's words to the boys, emphasizing their role as carriers of faith and hope, resonated deeply, reminding them that light can indeed triumph over darkness, even in the face of adversity. This event, rescheduled due to wartime restrictions, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Jewish people.

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You should always remember that this is not simply a ‘coming of age’ experience that we typically think of for a bar mitzvah. You are carrying a message of faith and hope, and that light can win out over darkness. I know that each of your parents is looking down from above with incredible pride, and that their souls are in the room dancing along with all of us.