COLUMBUS, Ohio ( WCMH ) — Members of central Ohio’s Jewish community said the past year has been filled with shock, pain and fear but also with hope and unity.
“We are praying for peace, we are praying for the hostages, and we want a safe return,” said Julie Tilson-Stanley, president and CEO of Jewish Columbus.
It’s been one year since the start of the Israel-Hamas war; one year of lives lost on both sides and one year of Israeli hostages still being held in Gaza.
With the anniversary coming right in the middle of the Jewish high holidays, Jewish Columbus’ security team and partners are on high alert.
“I know that many rabbis in their sermons this past week have talked about the safe return of the hostages, have talked about Jewish joy and Jewish pride, and how Jewish values promote those of peace and of social justice and taking care of those that are vulnerable in the community,” Tilson-Stanley said. “We believe that a safe Jewish community is a safe Columbus community.”
Tilson-Stanley said through the uncertainty of this year also came hope.