The Yeshiva of Central Queens (YCQ) marked Yom HaZikaron with meaningful and age-appropriate ceremonies for our students in grades 3-8. Students honored the memory of fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism and were inspired by the heroic sacrifices they made to ensure the establishment and continuation of Medinat Yisrael. Students in grades 5-8 had the special opportunity to hear from Yehonatan Asayag, an IDF soldier who grew up in Queens.
He concluded his moving talk with powerful words of inspiration: “You guys fought the war just as much as I did. The prayers that you said, I felt them over there; the letters you wrote, I received them. Am Yisrael is one – one nation – and we are all in this together. Yes, we will win this war, and when we do win, we will all, b’ezras Hashem, be in Israel together.”
The next day, Yom HaAtzmaut, was a day like no other. After davening, the entire school gathered outside in the yard to participate in YCQ’s annual school-wide musical Hallel. Over 1,000 students and staff members sang and praised Hashem for the gift of Medinat Yisrael. Led by JHS rebbi and Jewish music star Rabbi Ophie Nat, the sea of blue and white was a remarkable display of achdus and hodaah. Throughout the day, students participated in special lessons, games, and activities connected to Eretz Yisrael, including a meaningful kumsitz.
The Early Childhood Program enjoyed an amazing hands-on, tailored program of their own. Students grabbed their passports, boarded an El Al plane, and arrived in Israel for a short visit. In Yerushalayim, they davened at the Kotel and bought snacks at the shuk with sh’kalim. Students ventured south to Eilat, where they snorkeled and found seashells. They also planted trees in the Galil, and their busy trip concluded with a stop in Tzfat, the holy northern city, where they made beautiful, colorful candles and artwork.
Thank you to everyone who made these two programs so meaningful. YCQ looks forward to a continued future of peace and celebration for am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael. May Hashem continue to watch over His people, and may we merit the ultimate G’ulah speedily. L’shanah ha’baah BiYerushalayim!
