Holocaust survivors and other seniors gathered on Monday to celebrate 15 Shevat—the New Year of the Trees—in Lod, a city in central Israel.
The participants, who numbered in the dozens, enjoyed the warmth of each other’s company, a hot meal and entertainment. They clapped their hands and sang along to a lively musical performance from a group of survivors who now live in the Chashmonaim senior residence.
The holiday began this year on Feb. 3 and continued through Feb. 4. This is the season in which the earliest-blooming trees in Israel emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.
Rabbi Yankel Gloiberman, director of the Chabad-affiliated Yad BeYad (“Hand in Hand”) organization, explained the significance of the day and blessed the seniors with many more fruitful years. He also invited them to participate in the many programs offered on a daily basis, including music and art.
The rabbi noted that a meal with music and celebration is arranged for every Jewish holiday, with an emphasis on making survivors feel at home, especially since many of them have no family.
And last but certainly not least, he extended his thanks to the staffs of Yad BeYad and the center, as well as the volunteers who helped make the event so special.
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