Thousands of Australians are set to engage in acts of kindness this Thursday, as the nation observes a national day of mourning for the victims of last month's devastating terror attack at Bondi. This solemn occasion sees the Jewish tradition of mitzvah, meaning charitable deeds, embraced across diverse faiths and backgrounds to foster unity and remembrance.
Mitzvahs Spread Kindness in Wake of Tragedy
In the weeks following the Bondi attack, which claimed 15 lives during the first night of Hanukah, the concept of mitzvah has gained widespread traction. Carole Schlessinger, CEO and co-founder of the charity Kids Giving Back, has been instrumental in this movement through her One Mitzvah for Bondi program. Since the incident, she has welcomed hundreds of families to prepare meals for vulnerable communities, with two special events scheduled for Thursday.
"We truly believe that enabling kids and families to do these mitzvahs, these acts of kindness, is deeply empowering, giving young people a sense of agency, purpose and hope, especially at times like these," Schlessinger emphasised. Her initiative highlights how simple gestures can provide solace and strength in the face of adversity.
National Memorial Service at Sydney Opera House
Alongside these personal acts, an official national memorial service will be held at the Sydney Opera House on Thursday evening. Organised by the Chabad of Bondi with support from the federal government, community partners, and faith leaders, the event is themed "Light Will Win, a Gathering of Unity and Remembrance." It will be invitation-only, featuring speeches from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, and New South Wales Premier Chris Minns.
Guests, including survivors, families of the deceased, first responders, and community leaders, will gather from 5.30pm AEDT, with proceedings running from 7pm to approximately 9pm. The Opera House will be illuminated in alignment with the theme, alongside other significant national buildings, symbolising hope and resilience.
Ceremonial Elements and Public Participation
The memorial service will commence with a national minute of silence, followed by prayers led by Rabbi Pinchus Feldman. The Choir of The Great Synagogue will perform the national anthem, and 15 candles will be lit by families and representatives to honour each victim. Additional features include tribute videos, musical performances, and memorial readings.
For those unable to attend in person, the event will be livestreamed on the Chabad of Bondi's YouTube channel. Rabbi Yossi Friedman noted that due to capacity limits, a supplementary service with name readings and candle lighting will occur at Bondi Pavilion from 5.30pm to 6pm, allowing broader community involvement.
Community Leaders Advocate for Inclusion and Reflection
Daniel Aghion, President of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, expressed pride in the widespread adoption of mitzvahs, stating it made him "proud of my Jewish faith and proud of Australians." He remarked, "The antidote to exclusion is inclusion. One of the beautiful things that can come out of such a terrible event is a way to bring Australians together."
Michele Goldman, CEO of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, encouraged all Australians to participate in mitzvahs, such as checking on neighbours or volunteering, to honour the victims. "We encourage every Australian to undertake a mitzvah, whether it's checking on a neighbour, volunteering, or supporting a local business, as a way to honour the victims through acts of kindness," they affirmed.
Multifaith Vigils and National Significance
In Victoria, a public vigil will be held at St Paul's Anglican Cathedral in Melbourne at 11.15am on Thursday, bringing together multifaith leaders. Premier Jacinta Allan described it as "a moment to stand with the Jewish community and reaffirm who we are." This event will also be livestreamed, ensuring accessibility for all.
This national day of mourning marks the first such observance in Australia since the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, underscoring its profound significance in uniting the country in grief and solidarity. Through acts of kindness and communal gatherings, Australians are demonstrating that light can indeed prevail over darkness.
