Following a shiva, the primary seven-day mourning period, there is a secondary period of mourning called sheloshim. Sheloshim is Hebrew for the numeral 30 and is the name of this period because it lasts for 30 days. Sheloshim is meant to ease the mourner back into normal routines by allowing the resumption of many but not all of one’s regular patterns of social behavior.
On Tuesday, Nov. 7, the St. Louis Jewish community once again came together to honor those lost 30 days ago during the horrific terrorist attack on Israel.
The Congregation B’nai Amoona sanctuary was filled to capacity on Tuesday evening for a Sheloshim memorial. The gathering was planned by Rabbi Brigitte Rosenberg of United Hebrew Congregation and Rabbi Jeffrey Abraham of B’nai Amoona. The solemn service paid tribute to the Israelis who were killed in the attack. In addition, the names of all captives were read aloud by members of the St. Louis Jewish community, with prayers for their safe release.
All photos by Bill Motchan.
“When people arrived they saw more than 200 seats, empty for those still missing. Each seat had the name of a hostage and a light to indicate we’re with them,” said Rabbi Rosenberg.
The service featured music, the prayer for the captive, as well as the Hatikvah.
The vigil was spearheaded by the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, Jewish Community Relations Council, B’nai Amoona and United Hebrew. They are joined by more than 20 St. Louis Jewish organizations.
