Commemorating Reuven Shmerling H.Y.D

It was right before Sukkot, a few hours before sunset, and everything was ready for the birthday. Special t-shirts were prepared, the food was ready, gifts were wrapped and children and grandchildren were present. Everyone was waiting only for the birthday boy. Unfortunately, Reuven (Motti) Shmerling, a husband, father, grandfather entrepreneur and a celebrated figure in Elkana did not come home. While we all waited for him, he was cruelly attacked and murdered by Palestinian terrorists just a few kilometers away. How do you bring someone back to life? How do you create a worthwhile memorial? It took us almost a year to understand not just what he would have wanted, but what his life’s work was. What would make a real contribution to society and our community? In the end, we found the answer: Our Motti, a dedicated father and a true friend would have wanted to fill a void. To bring a change to his environment. To be a part of the beating heart of the next generation of Elkana. So let’s get started! We are currently embarking on an exciting and important journey to re-establish the synagogue of the younger community in Elkana. The old building is no longer suitable and it is time to build a real synagogue - a structure that will enable the next generation to pray joyfully, just as Motti used to do. We believe that this is the way to defeat the evil, the pain and the void that has opened up in us. Not with hatred or despair. Not by giving up, but by choosing life, faith, continuity and action. For this, need you all as our partners! If you were fortunate enough to know Moti, you probably know how much this message fits his worldview. If he were to look down at us and discover that, thanks to him, a synagogue will be built for the next generation, his grin would light up the sky. And even if you did not know him at all, even if you are just another name on the list of endless victims, we invite you to be partners in our victory. In order to succeed, in order to memorialize the way of our late Motti Z’l, we need your generosity. We need you to click on the link and help us build the synagogue. How much should you contribute? As much as you want. The main thing is that you partner with us, just as Motti would have wanted.