Dozens of Holocaust survivors, accompanied by their families, gathered at the Western Wall in Jerusalem this week to pray for the safe return of hostages and the success of IDF soldiers.
The group, from assisted living and community housing run by the Reuth organization and patients from Tel Aviv’s Reuth Rehabilitation Hospital, traveled in accessible buses from Ramat Rachel to the Western Wall plaza. There, they held an emotional prayer service during the Jewish month of forgiveness, Elul.
Sarah Shalev, a Holocaust survivor residing at Beit Shalom, described the experience, saying, “I was privileged to join the forgiveness pilgrimage to the Western Wall with my daughter and other residents. At this holiest Jewish site, I was deeply moved and prayed with all my heart for our people.”
“I especially prayed for the hostages and soldiers to return home soon, healthy in body and soul, and for peace, security and hope in our beloved land,” she added. “Prayer breaks gates, and tears break barriers. May we merit a good inscription and redemption soon.”
Reuth CEO Ido Sharir emphasized the significance of the event, saying, “The forgiveness pilgrimage is moving every year, but this year we ascend to Jerusalem hoping for a peaceful year, praying for the hostages’ safety and our soldiers’ safe return.”