Baltimore Jewish Community Gathers to Honor Victims of the 2023 Attack on Israel
By Tara Lynch
Baltimore, MD – In a solemn event on October 7, 2024, the Jewish community of Baltimore County came together at Beth El Congregation in Pikesville to remember the lives lost in the tragic attack on Israel one year ago. The gathering drew hundreds of attendees, including Maryland Governor Wes Moore and other prominent leaders, to reflect on the devastating events of October 7, 2023, when nearly 1,200 people were killed by Hamas in what became the deadliest day for the Jewish community since the Holocaust.
The themes of remembrance, unity, and hope echoed throughout the evening, with prayers, speeches, and songs offering solace to those still grieving. Rabbi Dana Saroken of Beth El Congregation asked the crowd, “How do we look back on a year that has felt like one long nightmare?” Her words resonated with many who continue to grapple with the emotional toll of the past year.
Community Unites for Ashkelon Fundraiser
The Baltimore Jewish Council, The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore, and the Baltimore Israel Coalition announced a fundraiser in support of Ashkelon, Baltimore’s sister city in Israel, located near the Gaza Strip. The region has been particularly hard-hit, and the support aims to aid in rebuilding and provide critical resources to those affected.
Governor Wes Moore and Senator Ben Cardin Address the Gathering
Governor Wes Moore, attending the ceremony with his wife Dawn, spoke passionately about standing against hate and violence. “Hate will find no oxygen in the state of Maryland,” Moore declared, reaffirming his commitment to Maryland’s Jewish community and denouncing the atrocities of the past year.
Senator Ben Cardin emphasized the importance of a continued national response to the ongoing conflict. He acknowledged regional allies working to prevent Iranian interference and stressed the need for peace in the region. “We must strive for a future where terrorism is a memory, where Israel stands strong, and Jews and Palestinians live as neighbors with security, economic prosperity, and peace,” Cardin said.
A Year of Personal Loss
Yahel, a young woman participating in an exchange program from Israel, shared a deeply emotional account of how the war has affected her personally. She spoke of friends and family lost to the conflict and of those still held captive. “Our strength is in our togetherness,” Yahel said. “There is nothing more important than uniting to act and free our captured brothers and sisters.”
A Community Continues to Heal
For many, the gathering was a necessary step toward healing. Howard Libit, executive director of the Baltimore Jewish Council, highlighted the strong connections many in Baltimore share with Israel. “This hit home for all of us,” he said. “We’ve raised money, traveled there, and cared deeply because Israel is our Jewish homeland.”
Mia Aronin, who attended the event, shared the emotional weight she felt on this painful anniversary. “Waking up this morning was hard,” Aronin said. “But tonight brings some closure, helping ease the heaviness of this difficult day.”
As the Baltimore community continues to come together in solidarity, the bonds between them and Israel remain stronger than ever. For updates on future events and developments, follow @dark_web24 on Twitter.