Community to Celebrate Simchat Torah and Hostages’ Release

October 13, 2025 JMORE Staff

A Northwest Baltimore residence celebrates the release of the final living Israeli hostages held in Gaza. (Staff photo)

To commemorate the recent return of the remaining hostages in Israel and the holiday marking the giving of the Torah, seven local synagogues, The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore and the Baltimore Jewish Council will come together for an outdoor Simchat Torah celebration.

The gathering will be held Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 8:30 p.m. in the lower parking lot of the Suburban Club of Baltimore, 7600 Park Heights Avenue in Pikesville.

Parking will be available in the upper lot of the country club or nearby at Baltimore Hebrew Congregation, 7401 Park Heights Avenue. (Security will be provided.)

Tonight, Oct. 13, is the start of the Shemini Atzeret holiday, which is immediately followed tomorrow evening by Simchat Torah.

“After so many months of heartbreak and waiting, we’ll gather outdoors for a special Simchat Torah celebration — a night filled with music, dancing and gratitude,” posted The Associated. “There will be three spaces for dancing (mixed, men’s and women’s), bright lights and incredible spirit. No long speeches, no program — just a heartfelt chance to celebrate together.”

Among the participating synagogues will be BHC, Beth El Congregation, Chizuk Amuno Congregation, Har-Sinai-Oheb Shalom Congregation, Beth Israel Congregation, Bolton Street Synagogue and Chevrei Tzedek Congregation.

Congregants of Beth El, at 8101 Park Heights Avenue in Pikesville, and Chizuk Amuno will meet in Beth El’s lobby — following their respective Simchat Torah services — at approximately 7:30 p.m. to march in a processional to the communal celebration. They plan to walk back as a group at around 10 p.m.

“Together, let’s celebrate freedom and faith — and the strength of our community that continues to stand united for Israel, for one another and for peace,” wrote The Associated. “We hope you’ll join us.”