Women Gather for Mega Challah Bake Marking One Year Since October 7 Attacks

Largest Mega Challah Bake in Greater New Haven Highlights Unity, Prayer, and Reflection on Life in Israel Over the Past Year

A year after the horrific attacks that took place in Israel on October 7, a tragedy that reverberated around the world, Jewish women from across Greater New Haven gathered for an evening of unity and prayer.  The Rise for Israel Mega Challah Bake, organized by the Jewish Women’s Circle of Chabad Centers Greater New Haven, sought to commemorate the devastating events of that date by blending heritage with a strong message of resilience.

The program, held on Wednesday, October 9, at the Grassy Hill Country Club in Orange, brought together close to 400 women of all ages to partake in the Jewish custom of baking challah.  In Jewish tradition, challah is not merely bread but an embodiment of spiritual and physical sustenance.  During the evening, participants prepared the dough, separated a small portion of the dough and made a blessing over it, turning the act into a moment of connection with Judaism.

The evening was highlighted by the testimony of an Israeli Defense Force soldier, Moria Azulay, who shared her perspective on life in Israel since the attacks.  Her reflections offered a sobering look into the reality faced by both soldiers and citizens, detailing the trauma, perseverance, and hope that have characterized the past year.  She urged those present to keep the hostages and soldiers in their prayers, and stressed that adding in good deeds in each one’s own life can bring protection to those who need it most.

The symbolism and meaning of challah in Judaism holds great significance.  “When we bake challah, we recognize that while we are engaged in the everyday act of providing for ourselves and our families, all of our blessings ultimately come from a higher power,” said Mrs. Bluma Hecht, event coordinator.  “By setting aside a portion of the dough, Jewish tradition teaches that individuals acknowledge the fusion of physical needs with spiritual purpose—an intersection that deeply reflects the life of a Jewish woman.  Bringing so many women together to do this mitzvah offered a powerful opportunity of prayer for the hostages as well as our brave soldiers on the front lines,” she added.

The program turned sadness into strength and pain into pride as a “Call to Action” helped women realize the light they can bring to the world through their good deeds.

Shelley Gans, who attended the event, shared, “What an amazing evening.  The attention to detail, the wonderful words and the participation of the entire community was so meaningful.  What a night to remember!  I’m so blessed to have been there,” she said.

For many, the Mega Challah Bake was a chance to recognize that while the past year has been marked by profound loss, the resilience and unity of the Jewish people remain steadfast.