In early July, 20 rabbis concluded 2 years of over 600 hours of study. Their very moving graduation ceremony was emceed by radio personality Yedidiah Meir, included the participation of Rabbi Yisrael Meir Lau and other public figures and was attended by 400 people.

The evening's keynote speaker was Asael Shabo whose mother and three brothers were killed in a terrorist attack in Ittamar in which he was also injured and lost his leg.

He spoke about the attack and about his long emotional and physical recuperation. Asael's story fit together well with the project of integration of people with special needs into the community which the
Barkai Center runs together with the Joint Distribution Committee.

During the evening the Barkai prizes in the categories of rabbinic achievement, distinguished Gabbai and community excellence were awarded. It was especially touching to see Shlomke a gabbai with Down's Syndrome, representing the community Gvaot, blessing the audience upon being awarded the community excellence prize.

The evening ended with the graduates receiving their diplomas. All involved returned home with pride and with a desire to continue helping the Jewish people!