On Rosh Chodesh Chesvan, 5776 – October 16, 2015, Shaalei Tikva staged a moving Bar/Bat-Mitzvah celebration for 76 come of age boys and girls from low socio-economic backgrounds, in memory of the 76 Israelis who fell in Operation Protective Edge last summer.  The inspiring event took place on Rosh Chodesh Chesvan, 5776, October 16, 2015, at the Kotel Plaza by the Western Wall in Jerusalem.

In spite of the looming threats of the current security situation in Jerusalem, the celebration was attended by over 250 relatives and friends of the Bnei-Mitzvah youth who basked in a festive atmosphere by the Kotel Hamaaravi. The festivities included a tour of the Kotel Tunnels, a band and DJ, photographer and seudat mitzvah attended by community officials, Army officials and the Chief Rabbi of Israel.

The event signified a rousing coming of age for boys and girls at risk, and a strong show of Israeli solidarity in difficult times. Just as our country was unified during Operation Protective Edge, so we must join hands and carry on with our lives in the face of of the ongoing violence that threatens all Israelis.

We at Shaalei Tikvah firmly believe that the way to both commemorate our fallen soldiers and preserve the dignity and well- being of Israeli citizens is to continue our time-honored Bnei-Mitzvah tradition, which seeks to perpetuate the Jewish way of life in Israel and all over the world.