Hope is Mandatory, an Evening of Remembrance

Name: Hope is Mandatory, an Evening of Remembrance
Start: 2024-10-07T17:00:00-04:00
Location: 1342 Congress Street, Portland, ME, United States, Maine 04102

Schedule

Mon Oct 07 2024 at 05:00 pm

UTC-04:00

Location

1342 Congress Street, Portland, ME, United States, Maine 04102 | Portland, ME

One year after the attacks on October 7th, we find ourselves in a changed world. A "commemoration" to mark this horrific anniversary feels wholly inadequate, since trauma of that day is still ongoing. Hostages are still being held captive by Hamas, while the war claims innocent lives and the rancorous discourse in our country and our community grows ever more inflamed. How can we begin the healing process when the wounds are still being inflicted? How can we combat the sense of despair, isolation, and frustration?
Only as a community can we begin to heal and only under the banner of hope. In the words of the indominable and inspirational Rachel Goldberg Polin, "Hope Is Mandatory".
October 7th | Doors Open at 5PM | Program Runs from 6:30-7:45PM
The event is free to attend, but advance registration is required for security purposes. Attendees must present ID for entry.
Kosher Israeli-Style Community Dinner (5:00 - 6:30 PM):
A communal meal will be served featuring dishes from "Shavuot of Longing," a cookbook created in honor of hostages and missing persons. This dinner will set the tone of connection and shared experience.
Main Program (6:30 - 7:45 PM):
Opening Remarks
Keynote Speech: Keren Borovsky Oren, a survivor from Kibbutz Re’im, will share her harrowing experiences and the hope she holds for the future, despite the ongoing conflict.
Testimonies & Reflections
Community members from across the state will offer poems, songs, and prayers, creating a tapestry of voices that reflect the collective grief, hope, and resilience of our community.
Candlelight Vigil : A solemn and symbolic moment of remembrance, with candles lit to honor the victims and to illuminate the path toward healing and peace.
Childcare Services: Childcare will be provided at the JCA from 6:30 to 8:00 PM for children ages 2-11, allowing parents and guardians to fully engage in the program.
Statewide Participation: Recognizing the importance of accessibility and inclusion, the event will be simultaneously hosted at partner locations throughout Maine. Each location will follow the same program format, ensuring a cohesive statewide experience.
If you can't make it to Portland, you can still participate in this program at one of the following partner locations:
Temple Shalom (Auburn)
Temple Beth El (Augusta)
Congregation Beth Israel (Bath)
Beth Israel Congregation (Waterville)
Adas Yoshuron (Rockland)