By Reporter staff

The Jewish Federation of Greater Binghamton will hold a vigil/program on Thursday, August 8, at 7 pm, at Temple Israel, 4737 Deerfield Pl., Vestal. The event will start with a vigil featuring area rabbis and the reading of the names of the hostages, and then conclude with a one-hour long presentation by Eitan and Varda Morell, whose son, IDF Staff Sgt. Maoz Morell, was wounded on February 15 while fighting in Gaza and died on February 19 at the age of 22. If the hostages are released before the event, the vigil will offer thanks and blessings instead. The Federation is looking for volunteers to read the names of the hostages during the program. Volunteers should contact the Federation at 607-724-2332 or director@jfgb.org. Registration for the event is requested to help prepare, but is not required, and can be made by contacting the Federation or registering here.

“The stinging loss of Maoz Morell was felt by Jews worldwide,” said Shelley Hubal, executive director of the Federation. “People all over mourned his death. His parents will share the inspirational story of his heroism in life and in death in the context of three generations of Jewish survival and strength. It is especially meaningful to Eitan to come back to his hometown and share his son’s story.”

Hubal added, “It’s important that we don’t forget the hostages and those who died on October 7 or during the fighting that has occurred since. While we continue our lives, the hostages are being held captive and their loved ones wonder if they will ever see them again. We need to raise our voices to show they are not forgotten. We must also remember all those who are risking their lives or who have died defending Israel.”