Memorial ceremony and moment of silence for the murder victims

Ovadia Keidar, who lives in Netiv HaAsara, where many of the residents are among those who were murdered, and whose wife is hospitalized at Hillel Yaffe, spoke at the ceremony. Keidar thanked the staff for the wonderful care and for the professional and emotionally sensitive response he and his wife have received, which has been a source of significant comfort in this very difficult time. While he was speaking, droplets of rain began to fall, and beyond all else symbolized the feelings of everyone in attendance.

Hospital Director Dr. Mickey Dudkiewicz spoke at the ceremony and said, “Today, we have all come together to commemorate those who were murdered in cold blood. Our brothers and sisters in the health care system, fathers, mothers, daughters and sons, the elderly and children who were mercilessly slaughtered by an enemy of unfathomable evil. Like all of us, I pray for the recovery of the wounded and for the quick and safe return of those being held captive. Make room for sorrow and grief. These are clearly difficult times. But also make room for hope and mainly for the understanding that only all of us together can bring days of unity and strength, and to an Israel that is stronger and healthier for all of us.”

The ceremony ended with the singing of Hatikva and the lighting of the memorial candles which spelled out “lezichram” (in remembrance) along with a Star of David.

Lighting memorial candles at Hillel Yaffe Medical Center to commemorate the murder victims