Berman Commons Hosts Holocaust Remembrance Program

On Tuesday afternoon, April 14, the residents of Berman Commons gathered in Sugarman Hall for a moving and thoughtfully designed Yom HaShoah Holocaust Remembrance Day program titled “Jewish Life Continues.”

Presented by Oy Vey VR, Inc. and in partnership with Empowerment University for Seniors, the program offered residents — some of whom are living with mild cognitive impairment or memory loss — a gentle and meaningful opportunity to reflect, remember, and reconnect with Jewish history, identity, and resilience.

Rather than focusing only on tragedy, the program was intentionally structured to balance remembrance with dignity, continuity, and hope. Residents participated in a candle-lighting ritual honoring the memory of those who were lost during the Holocaust, followed by a short educational video that helped frame the importance of remembrance across generations. The tone of the gathering remained respectful and supportive throughout, allowing participants to engage comfortably at their own pace.

A central theme of the afternoon was remembering Jewish life before the Holocaust. Through historic photographs and guided discussion, residents were invited to reflect on the traditions and celebrations that shaped Jewish communities across Europe prior to World War II. Participants shared memories of Shabbat dinners, holiday gatherings, and family customs from their own childhoods, creating a powerful sense of connection between personal experience and collective history.

The program then gently transitioned to honoring those who were lost. Facilitators created a quiet space for reflection, emphasizing remembrance without graphic detail — an approach especially appropriate for older adults and residents in memory care. A brief moment of silence allowed participants to acknowledge the lives and communities that were destroyed while reinforcing the importance of continuing to speak their names and preserve their stories.

“It was incredibly meaningful to watch our residents connect with this program in such a personal way. Many of them shared their own memories, traditions, and reflections, which reminded all of us that Holocaust remembrance is not only about the past — it’s about honoring the strength and continuity of Jewish life today. Programs like Jewish Life Continues help our residents feel proud of their identity, connected to their community, and reassured that their stories are an important part of our shared history, said Janece Jenkins, Berman Commons activity director.

For many in attendance, the program sparked memories of hearing about Israel’s founding in 1948 and the sense of hope it represented for Jewish people around the world. Several residents shared reflections about their own visits to Israel or the first time they learned about the new Jewish state, adding a personal dimension to the historical narrative.

The gathering concluded with a celebration of Jewish continuity today. Residents spoke about traditions they have passed down to their children and grandchildren and continue to observe. From lighting Shabbat candles to celebrating Passover and teaching Hebrew words to younger generations, these moments of sharing reinforced the program’s central message: that Jewish life is not only remembered — it is actively lived.

The closing ceromony invited residents to reflect on their role in sustaining Jewish identity across generations. As facilitators reminded participants, “Because of memories, the past is never lost. Because of you, Jewish life continues.” The afternoon ended with residents singing together, creating a shared sense of community and emotional closure that is especially meaningful in memory care settings.

In honoring the past together, residents also affirmed something enduring about the present: Jewish life continues — through memories, through traditions, and through community.

Berman Commons, Jewish HomeLife’s assisted living and memory care community in Dunwoody, is known for its warm, family-like environment and commitment to enriching the lives of its residents. With innovative programs, compassionate caregivers, and a focus on dignity and independence, Berman Commons provides seniors with opportunities to stay engaged, active, and connected. For more information, visit www.jewishhomelife.org/living-options/berman-commons/.