A special prayer and memorial service was held this morning at the Central Synagogue in Berlin to mark the first anniversary of the October 7 massacre, with the participation of senior persons from the German political and diplomatic elite, including Mayor of Berlin, Kai Wegner.
In his speech, Wegner emphasized Germany's commitment to Israel's security and the need to fight antisemitism. "We need to fight antisemitism," Wagner said, "it is impossible for something like this to happen again in Germany. We will always stand by Israel," he said.
He also addressed the situation of the 101 hostages in Gaza and expressed pride in the vibrant Jewish life in Germany.
Rabbi Yehuda Teichtel, Rabbi of Berlin, led a prayer in memory of the murdered and for the peace of the hostages. At the end of the prayer, the participants sang "Am Yisrael Chai.”
Alon Gat, whose wife Yarden was released and sister Carmel was murdered while in captivity in Gaza, said moving words during the event.
This event follows on from the ceremony held for the New Year, which was attended by the German Minister of Health, Karl Lauterbach.
The minister emphasized Germany's commitment to the fight against terrorism and antisemitism, and the need to protect the Jewish community in Germany.