Over 20 Long Island partner synagogue congregations will assemble at Sid Jacobson JCC this Sunday, October 27, 4-5:30pm, for the inaugural Beresheet (Genesis) Festival — a community-wide gathering in remembrance of the tragic events of October 7, 2023.

Open to all who wish to attend, the festival will also commemorate the joy and renewal of Simchat Torah, bringing the Long Island Jewish community together through prayer, song, and dance.

Beresheet, meaning “in the beginning” in Hebrew, refers to the opening words of Genesis in the Torah. Simchat Torah celebrates the conclusion of the annual cycle of public Torah readings and the start of a new cycle.

“On this day of profound remembrance and joyous celebration, we unite as one community to honor those we lost on October 7th and reclaim the spirit of Simchat Torah,” said Lauren Chizner, Director of Jewish Life + Learning at Sid Jacobson JCC. “Each Hakafa — each circle with the Torah — will guide us through a journey of remembrance, support, gratitude, resilience, hope, peace, and unity. Together, we strengthen our bonds and affirm the continuity of our traditions in the face of adversity.”

The Beresheet Festival will embody the spirit of “We Will Dance Again,” a powerful expression of resilience born out of the events of October 7th.

Since the horrifying attacks at the Nova Music Festival over one year ago, “We Will Dance Again” has become a unifying call for survivors and the global Jewish community, symbolizing their commitment to reclaim joy, life, and tradition, in the face of immense grief.

Sid Jacobson JCC continues to stand in solidarity with Israel, keeping the 101 hostages who remain in captivity in our thoughts and hearts. As we dance for hope and freedom, we honor their strength and pray for their safe return.

To learn more about the Beresheet Festival, please visit SJJCC.org/danceagain.

About Sid Jacobson JCC

Sid Jacobson JCC (sjjcc.org) in East Hills provides a full range of cutting-edge recreational, health, fitness, educational, cultural arts, and social service programs. SJJCC promotes Jewish identity and provides a comprehensive program based on Jewish values, traditions, heritage, and culture, and is committed to enriching the lives of all individuals and families in its community. See community differently, “Like” the JCC on Facebook (facebook.com/sidjacobsonjcc).