Three Years After Escaping Under Fire: Bar Mitzvah Celebration in Israel for the Children from Zhytomyr Children’s Home

Boys from the FJC Alumim Children’s Home in Zhytomyr, Ukraine, celebrated their Bar Mitzvah in Ashkelon, Israel—where they now live with their friends—three years after fleeing under fire at the outbreak of the crisis. Rabbi Shlomo Wilhelm, head of the Children’s home, remarked: “Seeing them here, speaking Hebrew, feeling at home and joyful—it’s nothing short of a miracle.”

The boys, formerly residents of the Alumim Children’s home in Zhytomyr, celebrated a heartfelt and elaborate Bar Mitzvah in their new hometown of Ashkelon. Three of the celebrants were from the original Children’s home, and two others were members of the community that formed around the group after relocating to Israel.

The event also marked the third anniversary of the community’s arrival in Israel, following a harrowing escape from the crisis zones in Ukraine. The children crossed borders under live fire, some without official documents, and against all odds, made it to Israel—where they received an emotional, official welcome at the airport.

Since arriving in Israel during the height of the crisis, the community has experienced a challenging but hopeful journey. Initially settled temporarily in Nes Harim, the group eventually relocated to Ashkelon. Over the past three years, the children have integrated into local Chabad educational institutions and the broader Israeli school system.

The Bar Mitzvah celebration was organized by the leadership of the Alumim Children’s Home and Rabbi Shlomo Wilhelm, Chief Rabbi of of Zhytomyr, who continues to split his time between Ukraine and Israel to support his dispersed community. The emotional event brought together public officials, local residents, and members of the community.

“Every child has a story, a whole world,” said Rabbi Wilhelm. “Seeing them celebrate their Bar Mitzvah here is beyond moving.”

Rabbi Mendel Liberman, head Chabad emissary in Ashkelon, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of unity and community: “Just as the Children of Israel received the Torah at Mount Sinai, so too our children receive it here in Ashkelon—with joy and love.”

The morning began with the boys donning tefillin, accompanied by singing and dancing. That evening, a festive mitzvah meal was held with community members, fellow Chabad emissaries, and honored guests—including Minister of Welfare Rabbi Ya’akov Margi, who left urgent Knesset discussions to join the celebration. His ministry has been instrumental in supporting the children’s home.

The boys were gifted personal sets of tefillin and siddurim, donated by generous benefactors. One especially emotional moment came when a boy who had completed a tractate of Torah study in recent months received a certificate of achievement, applauded by all present.

Even three years after the crisis began, the community that formed around the children of Zhytomyr continues to thrive—working toward the integration of both children and families into Israeli society, while preserving the unique spirit of the original Alumim home, once based in the ‘Or Avner’ village in Ukraine.

“This event was living proof that the Jewish spirit is stronger than anything,” said Rabbi Wilhelm with emotion. “Our community is blossoming—even in the most remote places.”

The evening concluded with prayers and hope for a better future—for global peace and unity.