Keeping Care Alive Through Remembrance: Commemorating the Victims of October 7 and Honoring the Friendship Between Taiwan and Israel

Keeping Care Alive Through Remembrance: Commemorating the Victims of October 7 and Honoring the Friendship Between Taiwan and Israel

Around October 7, 2026, marking the third anniversary of the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, people across Taiwan gathered to remember those who lost their lives and pay tribute to those who stepped forward in moments of danger. JTCA Founder Jeffrey D. Schwartz also attended the commemorative event, joining distinguished guests in honoring the victims and expressing care and support for Israel and its people.

During the event, Israel’s Representative to Taiwan, Israel Strulov, reflected on the pain and ongoing recovery experienced by Israeli society since October 7. He also expressed his gratitude for Taiwan’s support in the aftermath of the attacks, including its condemnation of the terrorist attacks, its concern for the victims and their families, and its donation of a mobile intensive care ambulance to support Israel’s emergency medical services.

One particularly memorable line from his speech asked: “Who stands beside you when it matters the most?” This question captures the true meaning of friendship and reflects the bond between Taiwan and Israel, built through tangible acts of support and solidarity.

He also thanked Taiwan’s Jewish and Christian communities, private supporters, and members of the diplomatic community for their continued support and companionship during difficult times. He emphasized that confronting the threat of terrorism requires international cooperation. In the aftermath of tragedy, remembering those who were lost, honoring those who courageously helped others, and continuing the work of rebuilding are all essential steps toward the future.

Sweetness in Remembrance: Three Desserts Honoring Three Lives

For this commemorative event, the Israel Representative Office in Taiwan specially arranged for JTCA’s Kosher Culinary Lab to prepare three customized desserts, each carrying a special meaning in remembrance of three victims: Shalev Tzion Sharabi, Adir Meir Avodi, and Hader Rosenfeld-Berdichsky.

What makes these desserts particularly meaningful is that the selections came from the families of the deceased, who felt that these were the desserts that best represented their loved ones. More than refreshments served at an event, the desserts carry the families’ memories of those they miss and their wish to share those memories with others.

Carefully prepared by Chef Sherilyn Fan in accordance with kosher requirements, the three desserts brought the families’ personal memories and sentiments into this moment of collective remembrance. Through these desserts, guests were able to connect with the lives of the deceased in a different way, allowing their stories to remain visible and remembered.

For JTCA, cultural exchange is expressed not only through the sharing of history, artifacts, and faith, but also through sincere companionship and meaningful actions. By contributing these desserts to the commemorative event, JTCA hoped to convey the families’ sentiments and help sustain a shared appreciation for life and remembrance across communities.

We remember those who lost their lives and honor those who courageously stepped forward in moments of danger. Through mutual care and support, may their memories endure, and may hope and peace continue to take root in the future.