Howard County’s Jewish community and others will gather at Chabad Lubavitch of Howard County, 770 Howes Lane in Columbia, to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the Hamas terror attacks of Oct. 7, 2023. The gathering will feature a memorial ceremony for the more than 1,200 victims of Oct. 7, as well as a program celebrating the holiday of Simchat Torah.

Local civic and interfaith leaders expected to attend include Howard County Executive Dr. Calvin Ball, members of the Howard County Council, and representatives from the Maryland legislature and U.S. Congress. In coordination with the Howard County Police Department, additional security measures will be in place to ensure the safety of all attendees. Private security will also be on site for the duration of the event.

The ceremony will begin with the recitation of the Yizkor memorial prayer, followed by an intergenerational candle-lighting ceremony. A full-course kosher dinner, served with vegan options, will be served. There will also be a special children’s program with food, flags, kid’s meal and Simchat Torah celebration.

6:15 pm Evening Prayer Service | Children’s Program

6:56 pm Candle Lighting Ceremony

7:15 pm Community Dinner & Simchat Torah Program

For information, contact Rabbi Yanky Baron at (443) 676-3837 or rabbi@chabadellicottcity.com.