Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day

One of the most atrocious things that one human can do to another human began to take place 62 years ago in November of 1938. Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. My first exposure in person to the Holocaust was a friend’s father. He was one of the first troops into Dachau. Then, later in life I was lucky enough to meet people that survived, or escaped or liberated. If you get a chance to meet someone bend their ear. While the memories are difficult, you will learn a lot. Especially upon reflection.

I would encourage you to take a trip to New Orleans to the National World War Two Museum. One of the special exhibits there shows how American Jews fought for their country. It’s a great exhibit. At the end, it’s really moving. They have the actual Ark and Torah From Dachau, used at the first open religious ceremony Jews could celebrate upon liberation. Plus they have a tape of the service.

I cannot imagine what was going through their minds-or the Rabbi’s mind that was celebrating the service.

So, in remembrance, here is the English translation of the Mourner’s Kaddish. Sorry, I don’t do Hebrew!

Glorified and sanctified be God’s great name throughout the world which He has created according to His will. May He establish His kingdom in your lifetime and during your days, and within the life of the entire House of Israel, speedily and soon; and say, Amen.

May His great name be blessed forever and to all eternity.

Blessed and praised, glorified and exalted, extolled and honored, adored and lauded be the name of the Holy One, blessed be He, beyond all the blessings and hymns, praises and consolations that are ever spoken in the world; and say, Amen.

May there be abundant peace from heaven, and life, for us
and for all Israel; and say, Amen.

He who creates peace in His celestial heights, may He create peace for us and for all Israel; and say, Amen.

time to remember….and never let it happen again.

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