February 12, 2026

A Shabbat gathering shaped by Parashat haShavua, where care, joyful singing, and community came alive.

In anticipation of Shabbat, a group of Holocaust survivors from Netanya, led by Mila Fleitman, visited the headquarters of Helping Hand Coalition on February 12.

Bozena Gasiorowski warmly welcomed the guests and invited everyone to the table, creating an atmosphere of closeness and care. She opened the gathering by sharing thoughts from Parashat Mishpatim, highlighting responsibility for one another and protecting the weak, values that form the heart of community life.

These ideas soon took shape in real life through Andrea, who shared how believers around the world love Israel and pray for her. She spoke about expressing the responsibility mentioned in the Parasha in practical ways through GAIN Germany bringing help and encouragement to Holocaust survivors. Judy then continued by explaining that today many people who love God, from all over the world, also celebrate His feasts, not because they are Jewish, but because they love the God of Israel and recognize that these are His appointed times. She spoke about walking in His ways and honoring what belongs to Him, reminding everyone that community is strengthened when faith is lived with sincerity and respect.

Bozena then invited Luke Gasiorowski to lead the group into joyful celebration, an essential part of community life. Luke crowned the spiritual part of the gathering with a chain of songs, including Shema Israel (“Hear, O Israel”), words that have strengthened the children of Israel throughout history, including on October 7, helping them discern the enemy at their door. The music created a joyful and vibrant atmosphere, and everyone joined in singing together with Luke.

The meeting concluded with warm hugs and heartfelt gratitude. Leonid, one of the survivors, honored Bozena with a piece of art he had created despite his poor vision, a deeply moving gesture that touched everyone present. It was a beautiful reminder that community grows through care, faith, music, and shared moments of love.