“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven… A time to weep, and a time to laugh; A time to mourn, and a time to dance.”
Ecclesiastes 3:1,3
Dear Friends,
There is a time for joy, and there is a time for sadness. A few months ago, while visiting the south to dedicate a vehicle for the city police, we had a touching encounter. After the ceremony, we found ourselves hungry, and the only open spot in what felt like an abandoned town was a small falafel and shawarma shop.
We stopped to eat, and Moshe, the owner, recognized us. He told us how his home in Ashkelon had been hit by a missile, injuring him and his son. But he vividly remembered how Vision for Israel had helped his family and how we had gifted his son a laptop at a Bar Mitzvah event three years ago. Moshe’s gratitude was palpable. He told us how that laptop had been a lifeline during his son’s rehabilitation and education.
These spontaneous meetings remind us of the deep impact your generosity makes on countless lives. Even amidst sorrow and suffering, joy can flourish.
On 7 October 2023, a day meant for joy, everything changed. The massacre on Simchat Torah — the most horrific attack since the Holocaust—turned a day of celebration into a day of mourning. Simchat Torah is meant to be filled with dancing, rejoicing, and the completion of the Torah reading, but this year, it became a symbol of unimaginable pain.
How can we find joy in a day marred by such tragedy?
Yet, we know that joy, kindness, and love must triumph over fear and hatred. Though the massacre will remain in our hearts forever, we refuse to live in its shadow. We honour the heroes who fought bravely, and we stand in support of the victims and those still held captive, praying for their safety and return.
Even in moments of deep heartbreak, we choose joy. We believe in the power of love and life. We emerge stronger from sorrow, seeking comfort and salvation through prayer. As it is written:
"Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered; Let those also who hate Him flee before Him… But let the righteous be glad; Let them rejoice before God; Yes, let them rejoice exceedingly." – Psalm 68:1-3
To our dear friends and partners who continually pray for the peace of Israel, you play a vital role in bringing comfort and strength. Now, more than ever, we need your prayers and support as we work together to restore the physical and spiritual heart of Israel.
Your donation makes an immediate difference in helping us continue this important work with terror survivors. Please consider joining us in bringing hope, healing, and joy to those who need it most. Donate here and dedicate your donation to Aid to the Poor. Together, we can rebuild, restore, and turn mourning into dancing.
Thank you for your valuable support, blessing the brokenhearted, and comforting many survivors in this time of war and terror in Israel.
Chag Same’ach,
Barry & Batya
