On the evening of Monday, August 18, we arrived at the first yahrzeit—the sacred anniversary of loss—of six young hostages whose lives were stolen one year ago in the tunnels of Gaza. For 10 months they endured captivity, yet their spirits still speak to us.
by Dennis Augustine
In Jewish tradition, a yahrzeit is not only a marker of grief but a call to kindle light where darkness once was—to remember by doing, to mourn by loving more deeply.
We hold in our hearts the names of:
Eden Yerushalmi — A young woman whose radiant spirit and love of life touched all who knew her.
Hersh Goldberg-Polin — A gentle soul with courage and humor that inspired resilience even in the darkness.
Ori Danino — A devoted friend and protector, remembered for his warmth and loyalty.
Carmel Gat — A compassionate healer whose kindness and care extended to everyone around one around her.
Almog Sarusi — A man of strength and laughter, who brought joy and light to the community.
Alex Lubnov — A bright young life full of promise, remembered for his dreams and determination.
Their families’ pain is unending, yet their memories ask us for something living: to answer cruelty with kindness, despair with action.
As Hersh’s parents, Jon and Rachel Goldberg-Polin, have urged: let these next 24 hours be filled with one good deed—however small, however simple.
May their memories be not only a blessing, but a quiet revolution of compassion.
