Poetry and readings written by victims and survivors of the Holocaust will highlight Beth Ezekiel’s Yom Hashoah service, to be held at the synagogue on Sunday, Apr. 16, at 1:00 p.m.

Yom Hashoah commemorates those murdered in the Holocaust, and the heroism of survivors, rescuers, and liberators. This is the first time the Jewish community has invited the public to attend a service in their sanctuary.

According to synagogue president, Jeff Elie, the event will honour victims of the Holocaust by giving voice to their words.

“This is intended this to be a personal journey,” he explains. “We will set the stage, but those in attendance will be left to ponder their own questions – Why? How? – because words are just not adequate for something of this scale.”

In addition to poetry and readings, there will be traditional song, music, candle lighting, prayer and reflection. An informal reception will follow.

Elie points out that six million Jews perished in the Holocaust, as well as countless LGBTQ, Roma, and handicapped victims.

“Yom Hashoah gives us all the opportunity to stand together against hate of every kind,” he says. “And with hate crime on the rise in Canada, there couldn’t be a better time to show solidarity against the brutality of intolerance.”

Yom Hashoah observance will take place at Beth Ezekiel Synagogue, 313 11 St. E., Owen Sound, on Sunday, Apr. 16, at 1:00 p.m. Everyone welcome. Doors open at 12:30 pm. Seating is first-come-first-seated. For information click here.