Simchat Torah in the Valley 2023: Finding Joy Amidst Sorrow

The San Fernando Valley burst into life with an unprecedented celebration of Simchat Torah this year, even as the Jewish community grappled with profound sorrow. As Jews gathered to mark the completion and renewal of the Torah reading cycle, they faced the challenge of balancing celebration with grief following the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel.

A Time of Mixed Emotions

The traditional joy of Simchat Torah clashed with the community’s anguish over those lost in the October 7th attack. Hearts ached for hostages still in captivity and soldiers defending Israel’s borders. Yet this context amplified the gathering’s significance, showcasing the Jewish community’s resilient spirit.

A Groundbreaking Valley Celebration

Rabbi David and Rebbetzin Shana Kashani, JLIC Directors in the Valley, sparked a transformation. Their vision turned the San Fernando Valley into a thriving center for Jewish college students, culminating in a celebration that shattered attendance records and united young people across the region.

Bridging Campus Communities

Students poured in from five institutions:

• UCLA
• CSUN
• Pierce College
• Valley College
• Santa Monica College

The celebration drew more than 100 students, marking the Valley’s first organized Simchat Torah celebration specifically designed for college-age participants. Young Jews crossed campus boundaries, forging connections that energized the entire community.

Finding Joy in Unity

The evening pulsed with activity despite global tensions. Students and community members:
– Danced with the Torah, filling the space with movement and music
– Shared powerful words of Torah wisdom
– Savored festive meals together
– Raised their voices in spirited song

The celebration proved that joy persists even in darkness. Participants noted how their shared experiences of grief deepened their appreciation for these moments of connection and celebration.

Building for the Future

The Kashanis’ leadership has transformed the Valley’s Jewish landscape:
– Students who once felt isolated now thrive in a connected community
– Young Jews forge lasting friendships across campus lines
– The Valley stands as a beacon of Jewish engagement
– Community bonds strengthen in response to crisis

Looking Forward

This gathering blazes a trail for future collaboration among Valley universities. The challenging circumstances have highlighted the critical importance of community building, which provides essential support and connection.

The triumph of this year’s celebration, emerging from such difficult circumstances, demonstrates the Jewish community’s remarkable resilience. Their ability to unite, celebrate tradition, and maintain hope speaks volumes about their collective strength.

The event ripples beyond its immediate impact, carrying prayers for peace, for the hostages’ safe return, and for the protection of Israel’s defenders. The community’s determination to celebrate life and tradition, even in trying times, illuminates their unshakeable spirit.

Rabbi David and Rebbetzin Shana Kashani have created more than just an event – they’ve built a foundation for connection, celebration, and hope when the community needed it most.