Shabbat Hamalka is coming, the aromas of cooking fill the air, and family members gather around the table. The holidays are coming, bringing with them a special atmosphere of tradition, renewal, and family togetherness. For most of us, these are priceless moments, an opportunity to disconnect from routine and connect with our roots and shared identity. But for lone soldiers, who are far from their homes and families, Shabbats and holidays can be particularly difficult times, emphasizing the feeling of loneliness and distance. The Beit Eli Association, which is a warm home for lone soldiers, has set as its main goal to turn these special days into a positive, meaningful experience full of warmth and community.
The Shabbat and Holiday Challenge for the Lone Soldier
When a lone soldier leaves the base for Shabbat or a holiday, he faces a different reality than his fellow soldiers. While the others return to their families, he has to find accommodation and meal arrangements. Often, the options are limited to staying in a soldier’s apartment, temporarily staying with friends, or in more difficult cases, staying on base. Beyond the logistical difficulty, the emotional difficulty is the most significant. Being alone or feeling like a “guest” precisely at times designated for family, can intensify the feeling of disconnection and longing. The need for a homely atmosphere, a Shabbat table, shared singing and warm conversation becomes tangible and painful.
Beit Eli: Celebrating together – like a family
At Beit Eli, we understand the critical importance of the Shabbat and holiday experience for lone soldiers. Therefore, we invest a lot of effort to make our home a warm and vibrant center during these days.
Pampering Shabbat and Holiday Meals: Our kitchen is working hard in preparation for Shabbat and holidays, preparing rich and varied meals, with all the beloved traditional dishes. Meals are held in a family atmosphere around laid tables, accompanied by kiddush, songs and Torah readings. It is a time of gathering, sharing and shared enjoyment, providing soldiers with food that is also food for the soul.
Community Atmosphere: Shabbat and holidays at Beit Eli are an opportunity for community bonding. Soldiers spend time together, talk, play, and get to know each other in depth. Staff and volunteers join in the celebration, creating a true sense of extended family. We also organize special activities, such as poetry evenings, lectures and workshops related to the holidays.
Connection to tradition: For many lone soldiers, especially new immigrants, Shabbats and holidays at Beit Eli are also an opportunity to connect with Jewish and Israeli tradition. We are careful to observe the mitzvot and customs in a pleasant and inclusive atmosphere, allowing everyone to connect in their own way.
Permanent accommodation solution: Beyond the accommodation itself, Beit Eli provides accommodation for lone soldiers on a permanent basis, which gives them security and stability and the knowledge that they always have a warm home to return to on Shabbats and holidays, without the need to look for temporary solutions.
Hosting a lone soldier and connecting to the wider community
In addition to the internal activities at the home, Beit Eli also works to connect lone soldiers with adoptive families in the community. We are aware that there are soldiers who sometimes prefer to experience Shabbat or the holiday in a smaller family setting. We maintain contact with many families interested in hosting a lone soldier, and coordinate between the soldiers and families who are suitable for them. This initiative expands the soldiers’ support network and allows them to create additional and meaningful connections within Israeli society. Adopting a lone soldier for Shabbat or the holiday is a wonderful way for families to express their gratitude and provide warmth and love.
Feel at home, all year round
Caring for the Shabbat and holiday experience is an integral part of Beit Eli’s holistic approach. We see every lone soldier as a member of the family, and are committed to providing for them not only their material needs, but also their emotional and social needs. Shared Shabbats and holidays are the pinnacle of our community activity, moments of joy, connection and comfort, which give soldiers renewed strength to continue on their path. If you are a lone soldier looking for a warm and welcoming place for Shabbats and holidays, our door is open to you. If you are interested in supporting our activities or joining the circle of host families, we would love to hear from you. Together, we will ensure that no lone soldier feels alone on these special days.
