The ICEJ’s Home for Holocaust survivors in Haifa has had a busy spring and early summer, filled with outings to interesting places and learning more about Israel and the Jewish feasts. Here is our latest news.
Trip to Shavei Zion
Recently, residents from the Haifa Home were invited to the coastal village of Shavei Tzion for a day of relaxation and enjoyment. Early that morning, our residents and their caregivers boarded a bus and set out full of anticipation. Upon arrival, our hosts at the Beit El guesthouse greeted us warmly with coffee and cake.
Beit El is operated by Zedakah, a German Christian ministry that has sent volunteers to Israel since 1969 to serve at the guesthouse, which over the decades has welcomed thousands of Holocaust survivors for free 10-day holiday respites. The dedicated staff and volunteers from Germany are motivated by the same calling as the Christian Embassy to “Comfort, comfort My people.” In fact, those words from Isiah 40:1 are inscribed on the wall of their dining hall.
After our coffee break, everyone explored the beautiful gardens or visited the nearby beach, just a few hundred meters away. The residents really enjoyed the fresh sea breeze, stunning views, and peaceful surroundings.
“When I sit at home all the time, I don’t feel well,” shared Sonia, who is usually homebound. “Here, I feel so much better. Seeing the sea instead of buildings gives me a sense of freedom and space.”
Before lunch, we gathered in the dining hall to watch a film about the founding of Zedakah and its ongoing mission. It told the story of how German Christians, answering God’s call in the 1960s, began this service of comfort despite many challenges. In 1984, Zedakah expanded its mission by opening Beit Eliezer, a nursing home in Maalot, where Holocaust survivors receiveloving care in the last years of their lives.
The story about Christians volunteering at the Beit El guesthouse and the nursing home left an impression on our residents, as it so mirrors our Haifa Home.
“The history of this place deeply touched me;” said David. “I felt a strong connection, even though I am Jewish. These Christians gave so much to us, and despite our different faiths, we share the same father, Abraham. This was an experience I will never forget.”
After the film, a delicious and plentiful lunch was served, with thoughtful details in both the food and table decorations.
“It’s amazing how these Christians serve us,” exclaimed Etta.
After lunch, we thanked the Beit El team for the wonderful day and invited them to visit us at the Haifa Home. Mania, one of our residents, gifted them one of her digital artworks to express our gratitude.
The afternoon was spent relaxing in the gardens, playing games, strolling by the roses, or enjoying the beach. Some residents rested in special chairs, while others cherished the company of friends.
As the day came to an end, we boarded the bus for the trip back to Haifa, tired but joyful. For days afterwards, our residents talked about this memorable trip.
Our ICEJ team at the Haifa Home also were very grateful for the opportunity to cooperate with Zedekah, as we both have the same heart and calling to bless and care for these precious Holocaust survivors in their last years. And the caregivers also expressed their gratitude.
“What a beautiful day! We forgot we were working and just enjoyed the beach and each other,” said Reah. “We need days like this since we work 24/7, as it gives us a chance to relax and have fun together.”
Trip with ‘The Parliament’
The Haifa Home is a place where friendships flourish. One group of ladies, known as “The Parliament,” often share meals and long conversations, providing support to each other. All, save one, are over 90 years old.
To celebrate their bond and vitality, we organised a day trip to explore the Galilee with an experienced guide, tracing the historical footprints of the Templars – German Christian immigrants in the 1800s. The group enjoyed a pastoral coffee stop and a delightful lunch together. Though tired, the ladies returned home with many pleasant memories.
‘Miss Holocaust Survivor’ Film
The documentary “Miss Holocaust Survivor,” which won a prestigious film prize in Berlin last year, had its Israeli premiere in Haifa in late April with director Radek Wegzryn present. Approximately 800 people from the Haifa area attended, including many Holocaust survivors and their families.
It was an honour to have the two main characters, Rita Kasimov Brown (90) and Tova Ringer (102), both from our Haifa Home, among us. The documentary vividly brings to life their Holocaust experiences, moving many to tears, while also including humorous moments from the beauty contest. The screening was a resounding success.
The film will be released worldwide on January 27, 2026, International Holocaust Remembrance Day, allowing everyone to see this powerful story.
Lectures on Israel and the Feast for our Ukrainian residents
When our Ukrainian Jewish residents made Aliyah three years ago, fleeing war, we wanted to provide them more than just food and shelter. We wanted to help them put down roots in their new homeland, even at an advanced age.
Due to Israel’s own long-running war since October 7 of 2023, we had to postpone a tour of the Land. However, we have several trips planned over coming months so our residents can see more of Israel and its incredible history and growth.
At the same time, a professional tour guide is giving them lectures with video clips and pictures about the Jewish homeland and its heritage so those who can no longer travel can still learn about Israel.
Celebrating Shavuot
Shavuot is a joyful celebration of the giving the Torah. Ahead of the Feast, our residents could hear children at the elementary school next door rehearsing the Shavuot performance they were preparing for the last day of school. The children’s beautiful voices sang about the harvest and the seven species God gave Israel.
In art class, Nancy reminded residents of God’s promises and daily blessings. The residents were given one of the seven species to paint to their liking. A festive atmosphere filled the room as residents then enjoyed a delicious traditional cheesecake with coffee.
Also, we taught about the Feast in our regular Hebrew lessons. Our residents from Ukraine and Russia, who were deprived of their Jewish heritage in Soviet times, enjoyed learning about the history and traditions of the biblical Feasts.
Please consider supporting the amazing work the ICEJ is doing to care for Holocaust survivors in their remaining years.
