Members of the community are invited to gather at Beth El–The Beaches Synagogue on the evening of Wednesday, April 23, for an evening of remembrance and a Yom HaShoah service.
The yearly event is a tradition in the community, rotating among several synagogues in the Jacksonville area, each bringing its own unique spirit to the program while honoring the shared commitment to Holocaust remembrance.
The approximately hour-long service will feature reflections from Holocaust survivors and second- and third-generation family members. There will be a candle lighting ceremony, as well as music and prayers.
Clergy from four local synagogues – including Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue, The Temple, The Jewish Center, and Etz Chaim – will be attending and participating in the service. Mariam Feist, CEO of the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida, will also share remarks.
In addition to the service, attendees can view a curated display of photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia related to the Holocaust and Jewish history.
“My hope is that people find this gathering to be a way of commemorating and honoring those who lost the experience of those who survived,” said Rabbi Ben Dyme from Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue. “And also that we keep the memory of the Holocaust alive, so that we don't repeat our mistakes in the future and keep this from ever happening again.”
A catered dessert buffet will be served following the program.
Community members are encouraged to attend the service by RSVPing at https://bethelbeaches.org/ or calling 904-273-9100.
