Statement on the Release of Three Hostages

January 19, 2025

Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech Ha’Olam, Matir Asurim – Blessed are You, Lord our God, Who sets captives free. We are grateful to know today that 3 hostages, having been held in captivity by Hamas for more than 465 days, are free and reunited with their families. 

We continue to pray for the release of the remaining hostages, and for their safety and health of both body and mind. May God, who is HaRofei L’shvurei Lev, the Healer of those with broken hearts, heal the hostages, their families, and all those who have suffered during this terrible time. 

We also continue to grieve for the 1,200 Israelis who were murdered by Hamas on October 7, the unknown number of hostages who have died in captivity, and the 900 Israeli soldiers who have given their lives since then. 

And we pray for the Land of Israel. May God grant it strength, hope, and courage. May we all, one day soon, be blessed to see a time where ‘nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.’ (Isaiah 2) 

May God, Who makes peace in the Heavens, grant peace to us, to Israel, and to all people in all places.

The Clergy and Staff

Beth El Congregation of Baltimore

Media contact:

Jeremy Silbert

Director of Communications

Beth El Congregation of Baltimore

Jeremy@bethelbalto.com