YCQ Marks Second Anniversary Of October 7 With Moving Tekes

On Tzom Gedalia, the Yeshiva of Central Queens (YCQ) marked the second anniversary of October 7 with a deeply moving and poignant tekes and kumzitz, bringing students together in remembrance and unity.

The Junior High School gathered in the shul, where Rabbi Landsman opened the program by sharing his personal, firsthand account of being in Eretz Yisrael on that tragic day. With the lights dimmed and the soft glow of yahrzeit candles surrounding them, students sat in circles to reflect, share thoughts, and daven together.

The ceremony centered on tributes to three fallen heroes of am Yisrael.

Sophia Rakhminov (Grade 6) spoke about Omer Neutra,  h"yd, a lone soldier from Plainview, New York.

Aaron Chacham (Grade 7) introduced a moving video tribute to Ari Zenilman, h"yd, a brilliant father of three.

Shalom Peled (Grade 8) presented a heartfelt clip about Rabbi Avi Goldberg, h"yd, an educator and father of eight.

The assembly culminated with a powerful message from Rabbi Goldberg’s son, who recalled his mother’s stirring directive to their family: “Choose life.”

Interwoven throughout the program were stirring renditions of songs and t’filot such as “Acheinu” and the Mi Shebeirach for the IDF. Students sang with passion and unity, their voices rising together in heartfelt solidarity.

The tekes transformed a day of national grief into a shared moment of strength and connection — one that left a profound and lasting impression on all who attended.

Special thanks to Morah Mashie Kopelowitz, Director of K–8 Judaic Studies, for organizing this meaningful program, and to Rabbi Ophie Nat for leading the uplifting singing.