Holocaust Memorial Day 2024

Jan 18, 2024

Honouring the Past, Embracing Love and Unity

On January 27th, OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation commemorates International Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD), marking the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp. We stand in solidarity with all those affected by the Holocaust, including the following generations carrying its profound impacts. The Holocaust Memorial Day Trust (HMDT) emphasises the need for remembrance to create a world marked by safety, compassion, and love. In times when our world feels fragile, standing united against prejudice and hatred is paramount.

At OneSpirit, we hold fast to the belief that love can transcend our differences. On this solemn day, we are reminded that we ALL have a role in battling hate and nurturing a harmonious society for everyone. We encourage you to deepen your understanding of HMD and get involved by visiting the Holocaust Memorial Day website.

Today, we honour those individuals impacted by the Holocaust who demonstrated courage in standing against genocide and oppression. We share the inspiring stories of Vali Rácz and Waldemar Nods, whose bravery and compassion saved lives during the Second World War.

Vali Rácz, a talented and popular singer in Hungary, risked her life to save lives during the war. She used her fame to hide five Jewish people and a non-Jewish ‘deserter’ in her home in Budapest, providing them with food and shelter while keeping them hidden from the Gestapo and Hungarian Arrow Cross. Vali’s unwavering determination to protect innocent lives reminds us of the importance of showing compassion and humanity, even in the darkest times. You can read more about Vali’s incredible story on the HMDT website.

Waldemar Nods, a grandson of Surinamese slaves, stood against regressive forces with unwavering courage. Together with his wife, Rika, he provided a haven for Jews during the horrific era of the German occupation. Their tale serves as a reminder to us all that bravery manifests in the face of adversity and their actions embody the values we all try to uphold every day. Learn more about Waldemar and his remarkable life on the HMDT website.

On this Holocaust Memorial Day, let’s come together to light the darkness and honour the lives lost and changed forever by the Holocaust and subsequent genocides. Let’s reaffirm our commitment to promoting understanding, respect, and unity across all cultures and faiths. This year, join us as we participate in the “Digital Light the Darkness” campaign by the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust. We encourage our community to tag us in posts where you #LightTheDarkness so we can continue to spread love and peace.

Together, we can bring light where there is darkness, remember those whose lives were forever changed, and take a stand against hate and prejudice. By honouring the past, we can learn its lessons, commit to fostering love and understanding, and work to create a world that embraces the unity of humanity.

Demystifying Interfaith: Expanding the Sacred to Include Every Path

True listening isn’t about waiting our turn, it’s a loving gesture of presence. In interfaith spaces, listening deeply creates space for stories, identity, grief, joy. It’s not about understanding perfectly, but about saying, “I’m here with you,” and offering connection as an act of love.

Listening is Love

True listening isn’t about waiting our turn, it’s a loving gesture of presence. In interfaith spaces, listening deeply creates space for stories, identity, grief, joy. It’s not about understanding perfectly, but about saying, “I’m here with you,” and offering connection as an act of love.

Lessons from a Luminous Life

Reflecting on Nicola Coombe’s luminous life, we remember her quiet presence, fierce love, and deep reverence for the mystery of being human. From making space in our days to speaking truth with care, her embodied wisdom continues to guide us in ministry, service, and connection.

In the Season of Light: A Solstice-Inspired Reflection

The Summer Solstice invites us to pause, reflect, and honour the light within and around us. Through ritual, journaling, and presence, we reconnect with nature, celebrate growth, and welcome the turning of the seasons.

10 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Making Spirituality My Career

Rev April Kling shares 10 honest lessons from her spiritual career so far, filled with warmth, insight, and encouragement for anyone considering a soul-led path.

What if my life was an act of reverence?

What if your whole life was an act of reverence? In this poetic reflection, OneSpirit student Andrew Jones explores how deep attention, presence, and love can transform the everyday into the sacred.

Women’s History Month: Indigenous Women Leaders

Indigenous women have long been central to the spiritual and cultural life of their communities, yet their leadership has often been overlooked. From ancient traditions to contemporary movements, women are reclaiming spiritual authority and revitalising practices passed down through generations. In communities such as the Lakota and Haudenosaunee, women have historically held positions of spiritual leadership, and today, figures like Winona LaDuke and Tiana Ngata continue to lead efforts to preserve and strengthen Indigenous spiritual practices. As these women reclaim their rightful roles, they ensure that Indigenous spirituality remains a powerful force in today’s world.

Women’s History Month: Women in Spiritual Traditions

Women have played a crucial role in shaping spiritual traditions, from revered figures like Kuan Yin and Táhirih to trailblazing leaders such as Harriet Tubman and Phyllis Curott. Despite facing exclusion, women continue to reclaim leadership roles and push for gender equality within spiritual communities, ensuring traditions remain inclusive and vibrant. This Women’s History Month, we honour their resilience and lasting influence.

Introducing the Cherry Tree Pathway

The Cherry Tree Pathway is our new blended learning programme, offering a mix of online and in-person experiences for those seeking a flexible approach to spiritual development.

Redefining Interfaith

We celebrate a new, inclusive vision of interfaith, one that welcomes all spiritual paths, honoring the richness of personal experience beyond traditional religions.

Demystifying Interfaith: Moving Forward

Interfaith dialogue goes beyond religious boundaries, embracing diverse spiritual and secular perspectives. This inclusive approach fosters understanding and respect for all paths.