Local synagogue brings back annual Holocaust remembrance service, Yom Hoshoa

SALISBURY, Md. – Sunday, the Beth Israel Congregation of Salisbury hosted a Yom Hoshoa. The memorial program commemorated the millions of Jews murdered in the Holocaust, and the heroism of survivors and rescuers.

Rabbi Ruth Smith says they’ve been hosting this program for about 40 years. We’re told some people still deny that the Holocaust ever happened and that’s why she says this program doesn’t just support the Jewish community but benefits the community at large.

The legacy of the program’s founder, Litman Litow is carried on through these efforts. “We want to spread his message, remind people about the holocaust so for me, it’s about knowing that people can do these things to each other and we need to be able to stand up, remember, and continue to speak up against those kinds of crimes,” says Rabbi Smith. She adds, “To know that we’re connecting as a community, it’s the synagogue connecting with the larger community.”

Rabbi Smith also tells 47 ABC, that they haven’t had this service in person in two years so it’s encouraging to see more faces returning to the synagogue.

Deputy City Administrator, Andy Kitzrow also stopped by the program to announce a holocaust remembrance proclamation.