For 472 days, the Merage JCC and our community at large have held Israel and the Jewish people in our hearts and minds, praying for an agreement that would bring the hostages—kidnapped on October 7, 2023—safely home and mark a turning point toward ending the devastating war that has continued ever since.

The ceasefire agreement brings immense relief and offers a vital step forward. It allows the healing process to begin for so many families of hostages and, hopefully, provides a foundation for envisioning a brighter future for everyone in Israel and the surrounding region.

We recognize that the road ahead will be long and challenging, but we are deeply grateful for the glimmer of hope it brings. We continue to pray for the swift return of all remaining hostages and for ongoing good news for Israel, the Jewish people, and all those impacted by this war.

Am Yisrael Chai