The sunrise (vatikin) services will feature joyful singing, musical accompaniment, and heartfelt prayers for the people of Israel. The gatherings aim to express gratitude for recent miracles and victories and to pray for the complete redemption of the Jewish people.
Moments from Last Year’s Holiday Prayer in Hebron:
Vayehi Noam – From the Hallel Prayer at the Cave of the Patriarchs – Passover Chol Hamoed 5784 | Video: Naomi Ratbi
Festive Worship for Freedom and Victory
The prayers, held in the spirit of the “Festival of Freedom,” will include Psalms of Praise (Hallel) and will focus on national unity, the safe return of hostages, protection of all IDF soldiers, and healing for the wounded.
Organizers emphasized the communal and national significance of the gatherings: “This is a call for hope and unity from the depths of national pain.”
Event Details: Jerusalem, Hebron, Safed
Jerusalem (April 14): The first prayer service will take place at Mitchell Park near Sultan’s Pool starting at 5:30 a.m. Led by Rabbi Eyal Yaakobovitz, the event will include refreshments, hot drinks, and a designated area for women. Parking is available on-site.
The Great Hallel Prayers of Passover: Thousands Expected in the Holy Cities; Photo: Rabbinical Communities Union
Hebron (April 16): The second gathering will be held in the plaza of the Cave of the Patriarchs (Ma’arat HaMachpelah) at 5:45 a.m., led by Rabbi Uriel Sayad. Volunteers and ushers will be present, and light refreshments will be served.
Safed (April 17): The final prayer service will take place at the Saraya Plaza in the city’s old quarter, led by Rabbi Chaggai Mashaan. Similar arrangements for hospitality and parking will be provided.
A Call for Unity and Redemption
“These gatherings have become a cherished tradition,” say the organizers. “But this year, the sense of awakening is especially strong. We pray together in the spirit of ‘From the straits I called God; God answered me with a vast expanse.’”
They added, “Our goal is to turn national sorrow into shared hope.”
