Jewish Organization Holds Annual Retreat for Women Rescued from Arab Villages

The "Yad L'Achim" organization recently held its annual "Strengthening Shabbat" for approximately 100 women and children who were rescued from Arab villages in recent months. The event, themed "Victorious Together," aimed to provide participants with a positive and empowering experience of Shabbat and Jewish life, as part of the organization's ongoing support.

The program included sessions focused on Jewish identity, connection to God, the power of repentance, and starting anew. Rabbi Orit Salomon and Rabbi Schneur Shmuelovitz led discussions tailored to the women's complex personal backgrounds. Children participated in separate activities led by educators and therapists, including an animal-assisted therapy session.

A significant moment during the weekend was when the women committed to new religious observances, inspiring others to do the same. A parallel program for teenage girls, aged 12 and up, focused on navigating complex identities and their futures, with participants finding solidarity and open discussion.

Yad L'Achim reported that for some attendees, the Shabbat retreat serves as a turning point, leading to significant life changes. One woman shared that witnessing an activist's family attending synagogue inspired her to adopt a religious lifestyle, and she is now married with children living a Haredi life. The organization noted a progression, with women who committed to observing Shabbat for the first time last year now observing it fully.

The weekend concluded with participants sharing their feelings and expressing gratitude for the comprehensive support provided by Yad L'Achim, encompassing emotional, financial, legal, and spiritual assistance, as well as the friendships formed. The organization stated that these retreats strengthen the women and children in their new lives, embodying their motto, "We do not give up on any Jew."