Cady Bunce speaks before lighting her torch. She was honored for Next Generation/Jewish Activism.

Two members of Congregation Or Atid – Cady Bunce and Ephraim Seidman – were selected to be honorary torch bearers for the Jewish Community Federation and Weinstein JCC’s first Torch Lighting Ceremony celebrating Israel's 77th Independence Day.

The ceremony mirrored the one held every Yom Ha’Atzmaut (Independence Day) in Israel when 12 individuals are selected to light torches, symbolizing the revival and beginning of Israel's journey.

 

Ephraim Seidman speaks at the ceremony. He was honored for Israeli Activism and Volunteerism.

The torches represent the achievements and outstanding contributions of individuals in various fields such as culture, society, education, art, sports, and more.

Each torch bearer represents a specific value, and lighting the torch is a significant public recognition of their achievements and contributions.

The honorees were chosen from a select pool of nominees who have contributed to the Jewish community in Richmond and beyond.

The torches were lit at the Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration held at the Weinstein JCC on April 30.