Choosing Life: From Survival to Resilience – Community Gathers to Hear Survivor Barak Morag’s Story
A large number of community members gathered for a powerful and moving evening, “Choosing Life: From Survival to Resilience,” featuring October 7 survivor and Kibbutz Nir Oz resident Barak Morag of Israel. The Jewish Federation of Greater Orange County partnered with Chabad of Orange County, led by Rabbi Pesach and Chana Burston, to host the event in the Chabad Center in Monroe. The event offered a heartfelt opportunity to hear firsthand about courage, faith, and rebuilding after unimaginable loss.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks from Rabbi Pesach Burston, “The people of Israel need to know they are not alone,” said Burston. “Every mitzvah, every prayer, every act of goodness and generosity and every effort to raise awareness – strengthens that unity and brings blessings. May this gathering bring strength, comfort and blessing to the people of
Israel, healing to those who need healing, protection to those in danger, and peace to our brothers and sisters everywhere.”
A heartfelt prayer for Israel and for peace around the world was led by Federation past president and executive committee member Abbe Distelburger of Goshen.
Federation past president Dr. Leslie Green of Chester delivered a strong message on the importance of educating and advocating against antisemitism, highlighting the vital role the Jewish Federation plays in strengthening Jewish identity, fostering unity, and standing up for the community.
Barak was introduced by Dr. Lon Merin, who, along with his wife Suzy, played a key role in bringing Barak to the community.
In his deeply personal presentation, “From the Ashes of Kibbutz Nir Oz: A Journey from Loss to Light,” Barak shared his story of survival, resilience, and determination in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks, inspiring the audience with his message of hope and unwavering spirit.
In a meaningful moment of solidarity, CTeen leader Andrew McCauley of Washingtonville, along with his sister Paige, and Daniel Ceglio of Newburgh presented Barak with meaningful gifts for his children. Members of the CTeen chapter created personalized bedroom signs for Barak’s children, accompanied by handwritten notes, wishing them joy, comfort and peace in their new home. The Morag family home was destroyed in the attacks. Barak was also presented with a Mezuzah for the family’s new home as a gift from the entire community. “A mezuzah is a sacred parchment placed on the doorpost of a Jewish home as a symbol of faith and Divine protection,” said Chana Burston at the presentation, “May this gift bless your new home with peace, joy and safety as you rebuild and continue forward with strength and courage.”
The evening concluded with an engaging exchange with Barak and the audience, moderated by Suzy Merin, allowing attendees to connect personally with Barak and reflect on the importance of unity and strength.
“A most memorable but gut-wrenching community event. To listen to Barak recount how his family survived the horrific October 7th terror attack on his Kibbutz, Nir Oz, is something I don’t think any of us who were there will ever forget,” Abbe Distelburger of Goshen commented.
“Speaking for the Orange County Jewish community was a wonderful experience. The people, the atmosphere and the great sense of welcome I received reinforced my passion for this meaningful mission. The large turnout of people who came on a week night to hear me share my story and be there as a support, and the meaningful reactions from them mean the world to me, and will send me back home with renewed strength,” said Barak about his experience visiting the community.
The event served as a powerful reminder that even in the face of devastation, faith, resilience, and community can help illuminate the path forward.
Photo Credit: Yael Ceglio Photography
