Congregation Beth Israel of New Orleans will host a community-wide event on Sunday, August 31 to commemorate the third anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and to celebrate the rebirth of the Jewish community. Members of the Orthodox Union will be present to mark the occasion.

Rabbi Uri Topolosky said, “We are going to dedicate headstones to the Torahs that were previously buried, which will serve as very powerful markers to commemorate the destroyed Torah scrolls. But we’re also going to celebrate where the community is today—making sure it is not only a time to mourn but a time to rejoice as well.”

The ceremony will be held at the Beth Israel cemetery on Elysian Fields Avenue promptly at 10:30 a.m. The preceding Shabbat, August 29-30, will be a Shabbaton featuring community meals and festive services. Former community members and people who have helped rebuild the synagogue and greater Jewish community are welcome to attend, as well as any guest who would like to share in the joy of a once-again vibrant community.