Prayer event at Jerusalem's Great Synagogue marks 30 days after Hamas massacre

Hundreds of Jews and Christians came together on Monday to mark 30 days since the horrific massacre of Israelis that was perpetrated by Hamas terrorists in Israeli communities on Oct. 7.

The NGO Israel365, dedicated to promoting respect between Jews and Christians, organized a joint prayer event in Jerusalem’s Great Synagogue.

The date was chosen as it marks the traditional Jewish mourning period following a death, which shifts into a new phase after 30 days.

Israel365 founder, Rabbi Tuly Weisz, in his opening remarks, stated: “Tonight is the shloshim, the 30 days since the terrible attack. In Judaism, 30 days is a very significant period in the mourning, where some restrictions are diminished a little bit and we’re trying to get back to normal… we have to shift into a new phase.”

A special prayer handout, including Psalms 23, 28, 83, 121, 130, and 142 was provided at the service, and was read by those at the gathering, along with Jewish prayers for the State of Israel and its armed forces.

Over 800 pastors and rabbis signed up to participate online, in addition those who attended in person.

Churches and synagogues around the world joined in the prayer for Israel and the families of the victims and wounded from the brutal terror attack on Oct. 7.

Prayer event speakers included Rachel Goldberg, mother of 23-year-old Hersh, who was kidnapped by Hamas, the CEO of security think tank IDSF/Habithonistim, Brig.-Gen. (res.) Amir Avivi, along with Rabbi Dr. Katriel Brander, Rabbi Yehuda Glick, Rabbi Yosef Zvi Rimon and Rabbi Weisz, Pastor Tommy Waller, Knesset Member Keti Shitrit and Israeli musician Yair Levi.

Goldberg told the story of her oldest son Hersh, who was kidnapped at the Re’im musical festival, where 260 attendees were killed or taken hostage. Just before he was captured, Hersh's arm was blown off when a grenade exploded below his elbow.

“We ask all international aid organizations to go in and check on the hostages,” Goldberg said.

“They’re currently holding Jews, Muslims, Christians, Buddhists and Hindus.”

“There’s a lot of support and love, and very little action. So when we get discouraged, we are thankful that we’re faithful and we believe in God, and we’re thankful for our friends around the world,” Goldberg added.