I just returned from the saddest funeral I've ever attended – burying seven pure souls. These beautiful children were my next door neighbors until they moved to New York a year and a half ago. My children played with them all the time. Our girls went to the same school. I still can picture David and Shuey (the name affectionately given to Yehoshua) reading on my couch on Shabbat afternoon and little Sarah (she was 4 at the time) holding my daughter's hand and skipping.
I remember when David, Shuey, and my son received new walkie-talkies and intercepted some random person's conversation. Just this past Shabbat afternoon, a few hours before hearing the horrible news, my oldest daughter told my wife, "If Rivka would still be living on the block we would be making a camp together for the week before Pesach like we did two years ago."
I'm devastated. We are all devastated. There are no words to describe the pain; we cannot begin to wrap our heads around this. People on the block cannot look at each other in the face. The pain is too overwhelming.
Gabby and Gail Sassoon are incredible parents. These children received so much love and attention. Look at their beaming faces. They did a fantastic job ensuring that their children were healthy and thriving. The family was an incredible unit always playing together and enjoying each other's company. They were each other's world. But what was so unique was that the parents allowed everyone to be part of their unit, to the extent that Mrs. Sassoon bought a larger C shaped couch so that children outside of the family could have room to sit on it.
And the Sassoon children were extremely inclusive of others. They were always sharing their new books, toys, and games. Even when they weren't home, they would let their friends come over and read the new books. Every Shabbat, the Sassoon kids organized games for all the other kids on the block while Mrs. Sassoon was distributing cut-up fruit to all the children.
In his heartbreaking eulogy given with superhuman strength and faith, Gabby Sassoon charged us to recognize that the entire Jewish People are one unit and that we should all love one another.
At the end of Gabby's eulogy he said that it's too much for him to speak about each child individually and that someone else would do it. That didn't end up happening, so I asked some of the children on the block if they could share some thoughts about their wonderful friends.
Many of the neighbors spoke about the children in a general sense. They described the children's talent evident in the beautiful paintings by Eliane, Tziporrah, Rivka, David, and Yehoshua lining the walls of the Sassoon home.
Their daughter Eliane was always happy for others, never jealous, and made sure to show her happiness for her friends' accomplishments and successes. She went out of her way to help others, often behind the scenes and never expected any credit for it. She was a very loyal friend and everyone knew they could trust her with their secrets. She was extremely responsible, devoted to her siblings, and had a zest for life.
Rivka was full of life, fun, outgoing, and sensitive towards others. She used her positive energy to make others happy. My daughter said that Rivka was the one to introduce her to the other girls on the block when we moved here. She was always volunteering to look after the children when her mother would go out for errands. Very often the older sisters would join their mother for errands and Rivka would offer to stay at home to watch the other kids. She was sensitive and mature beyond her years.
David, the leader of the Sassoon brothers, was very mature and level headed. He was a peacemaker, always happy to help things work out. At the same time, he was a regular relaxed child who was able to be so good with much ease.
Yehoshua was incredibly creative and always carried himself with a smile. He would include all the other children in his newest creative idea or project.
Moshe was curious and sweet. He looked up to his big brothers and was always happy to join their adventures with the other boys on the block, but he was happy to play with anyone and therefore everyone felt comfortable playing with him.
All the little girls on the block loved playing dolls with Sarah. She herself was very much a doll of a little girl, sharing her toys with her friends. In fact, one neighbor commented how much she looked like a porcelain doll.
Although at the time that he lived next door Yaakov was only three years old, he stood with such a presence, straight and confident. And, just like his big siblings, he showed his politeness in other people's homes when playing with their children.
Everyone who knew the Sassoon family speaks so highly of them. They were a model family, a true Kiddush Hashem.
In the eulogy given in New York, Gabby asked of us, "Please everybody, love your child, love your student, love the other children. That's all that counts, understand that." Reflecting on the beautiful Sassoon children, we can realize just how much love and dedication can accomplish.
Please pray for the full recovery of Gila bas Francis and Tziporah bas Gila.
Readers can send the family their condolences in the comment section below.
(196) glenda lafont, January 19, 2016 7:13 PM
I love them and I am not Jewish. I am a mother and a grandmother. My prayers are with these beautiful children
(195) Denise Gabriel, January 19, 2016 4:25 PM
Sassoon Family
My heart broke when I read the news...this is the first time I am able to write, so glad that I am able to share my condolences. You are not forgotten. Neither shall you be forgotten in prayer. Such a wonderful article about your family. I can only imagine how your family hangs on to the words of Adonai for strength each day. Bless you, Shalom
(194) Anonymous, May 19, 2015 6:10 AM
No words
Gavriel, Gayle, Sassoon and Jemal families: no words, except that I am grateful for the privilege of experiencing what kind of people and family you are. May you receive Hashem's love, support, and comfort during this difficult time.
(193) Keshet Kessel, May 4, 2015 4:01 AM
Changed my life
The increadibly deeply sad commentary of the suffering of little children in the Sasson house fire on Shabbat has propelled me to do more Mitzvahs. Watching Gaby's strength in his words of hope at the funeral, along with the heartfelt support by the Jewish community, has made me realise that Loving your fellow Jew is also feeling eachothers pain, as well as joy. I live in Sydney Australia and i put on a Sheitel for the first time last week( this makes me cry). I am wearing this sheitel, and continuing to do more Mitzvahs in honour of those beautiful children who were taken too young, as well as Mrs Sassoon and her daughter that they have a full recovery and have no physical scarring. To Gaby i say thankyou for taking me closer to Hashem and closer to my true self.
(192) Anonymous, April 11, 2015 8:01 AM
May Hashem bless you and your children.
Having lived much of the last 40 years in China, partly in Shanghai, a city once largely built by another Sassoon family, David Sassoon from Iraq and India, our prayers go with you too. Another member of the Jewish family. Shalom!
(191) KP, April 7, 2015 5:39 AM
Hamakom Y'nachem....
To Mr. & Mrs. Sassoon and Tzipora,
We are with you in your pain.
Although, we can't fully understand your loss, we are here for you. As a Jewish nation we stand as one and truly feel with you.
May the blessing of Hamakom Yenachem Eschem bsoch sha'ar aveile tzion b'yerushalayim have its effect on you and your family. May you find inner strength and peace and may you know of no such pain anymore.
Your fellow Jew
(190) Marty Teitelbaum, April 6, 2015 12:58 PM
I can't imagine your pain. You do not deserved such pain.
Every day I give tzdukah. Invariably, it is the JNF. Tomorrow, I will double my daily mitzvah in honor of your family. May Hashem bless you in this time of immense sorrow.
(189) Bryna, April 6, 2015 3:36 AM
We are mourning with you.
המקום ינחם אתכם בתוך שער אבלי ציון וירושלים
(188) Anonymous, April 6, 2015 3:35 AM
My most heartfelt sympathy
I am so, so terribly saddened to hear of the loss of your precious children. I mourn along with you, as does the entire Jewish family throughout the world. I am praying for a speedy and complete recovery for your wife and surviving daughter. I am praying for the souls of your precious seven children. I am praying for you to have the strength to go on.
(187) Misti, April 4, 2015 10:08 PM
Heartfelt prayers on you behalf
I am so sorry for your unimaginable loss. You are on my heart, in my thoughts and in my prayers. shalom .
(186) Anonymous, April 2, 2015 9:09 PM
Dear Sasson family.
I could never imagine your pain. you will be part of me for the rest of my life. I love you. Bracha.
(185) Rivka bat Brana Brindl, March 31, 2015 8:54 PM
We send you love and wish you strength for this ordeal
We send you love and wish you strength for this ordeal that seems as inunderstandable as senseless.
(184) Joan, March 31, 2015 2:36 PM
The tragedy
I am very sad to hear of the loss of these beautiful souls, May they rest in peace and will be remembered by so many who care
(183) Nancy, March 31, 2015 4:01 AM
My heart breaks
Dear Sassoon family, your beloved children are with HaShem, they are safe & totally loved here on earth and in heaven, my heart goes out to you as I pray your hearts be comforted
(182) Anonymous, March 31, 2015 1:00 AM
Heartbreaking. May Hashem give them the koach to continue and may we never ever need such a reminder again. It's up to all of us to brings moshiach before gayle wakes up from her induced coma. In the times of our ancestors they went from 49th level tuma to receiving the torah in 7 weeks. We can do it too let this moment be a wake up call tae ken something on and let's all hope that gayle will wake up to the sound of her precious choldren leading moshiach to yerushalayim iy"H
(181) Sarah, March 30, 2015 7:21 PM
You are in my prayers
I am davening that Hashem should comfort you and give you strength. Just as Naomi in Megillat Rut lost her children and yet eventually "a son was born to Naomi" -- she became the mother of Dovid Hamelech and the mashiach -- so, too, should Hashem bless you and bless you and bless you. We love you.
I am davening for you. Sarah
(180) Gaby, March 30, 2015 7:12 PM
Hashem's breath
Mr. Sassoon, I am so sorry for your loss, I have no words. But perhaps, Hashem is so desperate, so disappointed in the acts of men, that he needed to take a breath and needed your beautiful children in Gan Eden to give him hope and respite.
(179) Jay B. "Yaakov" Abrams, March 30, 2015 5:08 PM
Beyond Words
There are no words fitting for a tragedy of this magnitude, yet it seems wrong to say nothing. Only HaShem can comfort you in the face of such catastrophic loss, and may He do so--now, and everyday. HaShem must have decided that you have shoulders broad enough to bear such unbelievable pain and tragedy. May He bring us our righteous Mashiach now and reunite you with your family right away! Enough is enough! Ha Makom Y'nachem etchem b'toch availai Tzion v'Yrushalyim.
(178) RACHEL LEAH, March 30, 2015 6:14 AM
HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES
THERE ARE NO WORDS TO SAY OTHER THAN OUR HEARTS GO OUT TO YOU. WE ARE PRAYING THAT YOUR WIFE AND DAUGHTER MAKE A FULL AND COMPLETE RECOVERY. i WISH YOU IMMENSE STRENGTH
(177) Anonymous, March 30, 2015 6:02 AM
No words
Mr, Sassoon, How hard to find the right words to say in the face of such a tragedy and such pain. Only that we dont know the ways of Hashem and He seems to take the tzaddikim as an atonement. May Hashem comfort you and give you strength and heal your wife and daughter, and may you continue to be an inspiration to Am Yisrael in your love for Hashem and in not uttering any complaints against His will. Our thoughts are with you.
(176) Rosaria Dalbis, March 30, 2015 4:28 AM
Your not alone...
I am so very sorry ..... There are no words. I just want to cry with you.... I lost a beautiful daughter fourteen years ago, and anytime you want to talk, just know your not alone.....Big hug, Rosaria002@aol.com
Rosaria
(175) Lynn Finson, March 29, 2015 8:33 PM
Hamakom Yirachem
Your words at the levaya were so powerful and so meaningful. You gave Am Yisrael the gift of hearing and seeing "Emunah " up close.
I imagine your children in Hashems garden, basking in His presence and singing with the angels. IY"H may the day for techiyat Hameitim come soon so you can be re-united. Hamakom Yencahem Etchem B'Toch Shaar Aveilei Tzion V'Yerushalayim.
(174) michal, March 29, 2015 6:25 PM
May HKBH give you the strength to continue
You are a shining light for all of us and have made a tremendous kiddush Hashem. Although your beautiful children are basking in the shechina, It is so hard for those left behind. May HKBH give you the strength to continue to be strong and have the emunah and simcha that you have shown thus far.
May all the chizuk that you have given klal yisroel be an alyiah for their precious neshamos and a zchus for a refuah sheleimah for gila bas francis and tziporah bas gila
(173) Beverly Paris, March 29, 2015 5:24 PM
My deepest Condolences
Even though I didn't know the Sassoon Family, my heart goes out to you and may God give you the strength you need to carry on. My prayers are with your wife and daughter and hope they have a speedy recovery. Shalom
(172) Anonymous, March 29, 2015 4:48 PM
G-d is Waiting for Us to Reunite As Sisters and Brothers
Seven pure souls. Seven siblings; sisters and brothers. Everything that happens is part of The Divine Plan. When tragedy strikes we don't question 'why' only ' What'. What does G-d want from us now? It is customary that when tragedy strikes we should all take upon ourselves to become better people, something small, each to their own level. In this situation where seven siblings burnt up together is it not the time to fix our relationships as sisters and brothers? We're all in this together. All Jews are sisters and brothers! A smile. A kind word... That's all it takes...
May Hashem grant you, Rabbi Sassoon, the strength to deal with this most enormous challenge. We all pray for the recovery of your wife and daughter.
I sign with tears,
E, Brooklyn, NY
(171) ada apfelbaum, March 29, 2015 11:26 AM
condolences
We are all devastated at this disaster that has happened. My thoughts and tefillos are with you. May your dear wife and precious daughter have a speedy refuah shleima and may Ha-Shem give you the strength to rebuild your lives again. HaMakom yenachem eschem b'toch sha'ar avelei zion v'yerushalayim.
(170) Anonymous, March 29, 2015 9:34 AM
Tragedy
We Klal Yisroel have become one big family joining in your terrible sorrow. I admire you immensely for giving your precious children as a gift to HKBH without no trace of complaints. How much love you have for HKBH, how much Emuna do you have, how much spiritual strength do you have to grow from such a most difficult Nisayon and not to break down.
May HKBH accept your Korban and shower on you all the Brachot from HIM.
Bathschewa Rosenfeld
Schweighofstrasse 270
CH - 8055 Zürich
0044 78 935 6660
(169) Marci Bleicher, March 29, 2015 7:16 AM
Baruch Dayan HaEmet
HaMakom Yinachem Eschem B'soch Sh'ar Avlei Tziyon V'Yerushalayim. May Gayle and Sipora have a refuah shelaima. I can not imagine the pain and suffering you are going through during this difficult time of tragedy and loss. I only hope that you know that klal Yisroel is trying to bring kedusha in your dear children's memory by using perspective and a clear reminder of how we can better use of time in olam hazeh according to the DerechHaTorah. May this bring you some comfort along with the wonderful memories of your dear children that will always be with you.
(168) Kinneret, March 29, 2015 6:45 AM
You are an inspiration Mr Sassoon
Mr Sassoon. How you can be so brave and can proclaim your love of G-d just days after such tragedy and trauma blows my mind. The strength and understanding of such faith defies reason. It is a light that shows the way in a dark tunnel. Please stay strong. The Jewish people need your strength.
(167) Malina, March 29, 2015 4:38 AM
I am heartbroken and crying for you all. Today, on shabbat, I thought about you all day. Praying for your full recovery and I know that your seven beautiful babies are with HaShem in heaven.
(166) Anonymous, March 29, 2015 2:54 AM
May Hashem take care of these pure souls,and messiah come to see them again.
(165) Marty Kuehnert, March 28, 2015 2:15 AM
Love & prayers from Japan
Dear Gabby,
As you may remember, I lost 2 children, so I know a little bit about what you are going through. I wish I could wrap my arms around you and your wife right now, but that's impossible from the other side of the world, but know that you have all our family's love and prayers. God bless you, your wife and daughter.
Marty Kuehnert
Your old friend from Kobe
(164) Anonymous, March 27, 2015 9:43 PM
our hearts are filled with such sorrow for your lose. Know that we are all- every Jew- connected to you and pray for a complete recovery for Gila and Tzipporah. May you be comforted amongst the mourners of Tzion and may you find strength and Emunah to see Hashems hand in this
(163) Cheryl Sisel, March 27, 2015 7:29 PM
May Gail and Gabby and Tziporah be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. Refuah Shlaymah Gail and Tziporah.
(162) Pat Chaffin Supak, March 27, 2015 4:38 PM
I cannot imagine
I cannot imagine the heartache you and the family that are remaining are going through. Please know that my prayers are with you. I pray for peace and comfort and for complete healing for you and your daughter. God be with you.
(161) Anonymous, March 27, 2015 3:05 PM
Without words
There are no words.Typing this with tears. As a mother and a Jew and as a Jew and a Mother I send a hug. In silence an embrace filled with compassion, love, and strength.
(160) FO, March 27, 2015 2:59 PM
not in vain
Dear Rabbi and Mrs. Sassoon,
My heart and mind are with you, all day, all night. My tefilot are with you too- health, recovery, and wellbeing for you and Tziporah, and YBLCH"T leiluy nishmot your precious holy children.
Many are wondering where to go from here, and what we can do for you. Allow me to share my thoughts. In light of the tragedy occurring on Lel Shabbat, I chose to take on a Kabbalah Icommitment) to strengthen and enhance the mitzvah of Shabbat. Let this tragedy not incur in vain, let us all make an extra commitment to a mitzvah in memory of the children, and may the merits be an elevation for their souls.
May Hashem send you, our community, and all of Klal Yisrael, only recognizable good and yeshuot bekarov, amen.
(159) Susana Nepomechie and Family, March 27, 2015 9:14 AM
Condolences
We send condolences for your terrible pain and loss. May Hash'm bless you and heal you as a family.
(158) Amichai, March 27, 2015 8:15 AM
HaMakom Yenachem Etchim
So much to think about and very difficult to share all thoughts.. Hashem has chosen you, Rabbi and Mrs. Sasson to be our shichim and we must not lose the opportunity to feel with you the great tragedy and yet build with you a higher step in Emuna. My eyes are with tears and I have this little lump in my throat as I am typing. Ribbono Shel Olam have mercy on The Sassons and all of your beoved children who are trying to be your shlichim in this world. May our Beloved Tate-Father in Heaven bless you with the strength, courage, health, Emuna and all the greatest gifts that can be bestowed upon a person in this and the coming world. I am so sorry to have to have met such a special family within a tragedy and not at the footsteps to The Beis HaMikdash, may we soon meet there with all your little malachim!
(157) Anonymous, March 26, 2015 11:48 PM
We are with you
Rabbi and Mrs Sassoon,
I wish you nechama. Please know that we are with you, all of clal Yisrael, all around the world, with you with deep love and pain, dovening for you and the complete recovery of Tzipora and your wife. We are lifted up to the greatest heights by your emunah and all we have read of your exceptionally holy, pure kadosh Hakadoshim children . May Hashem give you nechama and may you feel the love that Jews around the world are feeling for you. May you know no more tzaar. With deepest love of one Jew to another,
Yonatan
(156) Sherry Gamlin, March 26, 2015 11:22 PM
I am so sorry. There are no other words.
(155) debbie uk, March 26, 2015 10:26 PM
A message to the Sassoon family
My heart is breaking I have no words to say as news of your tragedy spread world wide many of my friends are feeling deep profound sadness it has brought many people together in achdus and love wanting to do something positive and constructive people are checking up are on their neighbours looking out for one another my tefilos for you all that you have a complete refuah refuas hanefesh refuas haguf that you will find strength and comfort to move forward we are all behind you davening for you we feel your heartache may hashem guide you and hold you until you are able to hold yourselves with blessings Debbie (united Kingdon)
(154) Anonymous, March 26, 2015 8:47 PM
so sorry for your enormous loss
Praying for your health and for God to give you strength to go through this. So glad at least one child made it out..at least you'll have one child to hug. Praying for her too that God would give her strength to go through the loss of all her siblings. And praying especially for the mother. ..she'll need a lot of prayer support to get through this all when she's able to be well enough to be told of the circumstances. Stay strong in God. .He's the only One to really lean on in times like these. Praying for your family.
(153) Anonymous, March 26, 2015 5:50 PM
how this changes me
Last night, as I pulled into my driveway, my way was blocked by a small bike. My daughter had left her bike out! And to add to it, she left it in my way! Iwas ready to start grumbling again, and threatening to take the bike away as i had threatened so many times before. But I stopped for a moment, and started crying. I cried for all of the fathers who won't have their way blocked the child's bike any more. I looked upwards, and i said thank You Hashem. Thank You for wonderful, healthy children that can block my driveway with their bikes. Thank You for providing me a driveway that can be blocked by my children. And Thank You as well for the oppotunity to work on my middos by blocking my driveway for me.
(152) Benny Berger, March 26, 2015 5:18 PM
Condolences
No words to describe my sadness at the passing of these 7 wonderful souls, BDE>
(151) batya harris, March 26, 2015 5:05 PM
"I am sanctified in those close to me"
bikrovay ekadesh - no words - but the death of the righteous is an atonement for us, and this family surely seems unually special and worth emulating.
(150) Doris N.Hashem, March 26, 2015 4:21 PM
And the whole world shed tears with you.I know for sure ,you Mr. And Mrs. Sassoon have such a special neshamot for Hashem gave you such a hard task .please be strong for the sake of the all Jewish nation for we look up to you.I wish somehow I was able to ease your pain just a drop but the only thing I can do is to pray for all of you.
(149) sharon bank, March 26, 2015 3:56 PM
A pain beyond belief
May you never know pain like this again. We wish all who are so affected by this loss, a long life. Warren and Sharon Bank. South Africa.
(148) Pessa Devorah, March 26, 2015 3:54 PM
We are crying with you in Miami. May you be comforted among all the Jewish mourners and be blessed with more children if that is what your wife wants too, and G-d should grant you many grandchildren through Tzipora and you should know from no further sorrow.
(147) AG, March 26, 2015 2:36 PM
HaMakom Yinachem Eschem...
There are no words. The entire Jewish nation is in pain together with you. Thank you Rabbi Sassoon for inspiring all of Am Yisrael with your rock solid Emunah and belief in the Ribono Shel Olam. May your wife and daughter have a speedy recovery, and may you never know of any tzaar again.
(146) Cynthia, March 26, 2015 11:01 AM
My heart sank when I looked the pictures of these beautiful children, they are in heaven with god and nothing can hurt them anymore, I am so sad for this family, god comfort them and speak to their hearts and show them that they have not just been consumed by the fire but they live with god and you will meet them someday when your time is up, in heaven, god be with you and your family, god bless
(145) Sori, March 26, 2015 5:22 AM
Hamakom
Your children are our children. We share in this bottomless pain & daven for strength & Shalom to envelope you. All of Klal Yisroel is grieving. The Sparks of true light the children brought to this world will remain & shine bright for us all.
(144) Anonymous, March 26, 2015 3:42 AM
peace to you.
There are no words for the pain you are having. May Hashem grant your needs and bring comfort to you.? We will say Tehillim for your wife and daughter in our group. I am so so sorry.
(143) Ayelet Elbaz, March 26, 2015 2:28 AM
No words Only tears Tears Tears Tears We are praying for Mashiach to reunite you with your sweet sweet children very very soon No words
(142) Etel, March 26, 2015 2:10 AM
I always believed moshiach will come yet I did not know when after these tragic loss of 7 young full of Torah and mitzvot siblings I know moshiach is within our reach I understand Gd wants our prayers I bless the Sassoon family they will have the power of hashem to guide them in their time of need I bless them with love happiness respect and to always have a home filled with Torah and mitzvot may Gd bring moshiach now
(141) Chana Heller, March 26, 2015 1:40 AM
Baruch Dayan Haemet
My heart breaks for your loss. May Hashem comfort you along with the other mourners of Tzion and Yerushalayim. .
(140) Dorothy & Chazzan Harold Klein, March 26, 2015 12:26 AM
our sincere condolences
It is impossible to express condolences to this very special family. We're sure the children are looking down from Shamayim and sending blessings to all who are grieving for them. May you be able to have peace within yourselves.
(139) Michele, March 25, 2015 11:48 PM
With Sympathy and Love
I would like to express my heartfelt pain and sympathy over the loss of our angels. May G-d give you peace that surpasses all understanding, not as the world gives, but only as He will give.
(138) Barbara Jeffries, March 25, 2015 11:26 PM
I am one of so many broken hearts
I listened in awe as Rabbi Sassoon spoke of his seven precious neshamos at the levaya. I have been full of tears and anguish since last Shabbos, learning of the horrific deaths of the beloved Sassoon children.
I am grateful that Aish gives me a place to share my prayers and hopes and love for Rabbi Sassoon and his wife Gayle and their daughter Tziporah. Rabbi, may you be comforted amongst the mourners of Zion and Yerushalyim. I will continue with prayers for Gayle's and Tziporah''s rapid complete recovery.
Our hearts are broken; may our pain help lessen yours, may we help carry the load. May Hashem give all of you love, strength, courage and help you through this dark time.
(137) Anonymous, March 25, 2015 11:15 PM
We are here
We are community members and we want to say- You guys are not alone. We are praying with you and crying with you. We love you.
(136) Annette Mandis, March 25, 2015 11:04 PM
Your darling little angels
With incredible sadness in my heart, I believe that it is
possible when the young die so very early in their lifespan,
perhaps they have already accomplished the tikun, repair,
they were sent here on Earth to achieve. May they now
watch over you, your family and Klal Yisroel. They are
true angels!
(135) Anonymous, March 25, 2015 8:55 PM
it is so sad for all of us that are alive and well to hear of such a tragedy. as we have been taught this was bashercht and it must have been that god put these wonderful children on this earth for this short time for a good purpose and that they gave of themselves to others for their short lives. i pray to god that he has another job for them in the hereafter and that their parents can in some way go on with their strength in god at their side and in their hearts, we living will never understand why such young children should be taken from us but there will never be an answer from anyone. we must be thankful that they were here for as long as was god's plan and pray for their souls. all should pray for gayle and ziporah to recover from this horrible accident. i am hopeful that they will not suffer and that god will take rachmunis on them to lead them to a life of pain free existence and happiness once again,
(134) Shimon Lesserson, March 25, 2015 7:05 PM
המקום ינחם אתכם בתוך שער אבלי ציון וירושלים
Reb Gavriel - I don't know what catastrophe your mind boggling loss saved Klal Yisrael from, but it must have been a devastating chorbon. Shimon
(133) Shlomit, March 25, 2015 6:19 PM
Baruch Dayan Haemet
Words can not describe how saddened we all are by your loss its an unthinkable tragedy that unites us all, may their precious neshamas have aliyah and we pray to Hashem to give you and your family strenght to go through this difficult times! With love Shlomit
(132) atara, March 25, 2015 6:18 PM
in memory
there is a sefer torah being written on behalf of the sassoon family, in memory of the children who perished.https://www.misaskim.org/sefertorah.php
(131) Stuart and Yvonne Lasher, March 25, 2015 6:08 PM
condolences
Our hearts break for your unimaginable loss. We grieve with you and join you in prayer for their souls. May God take them into His bosom and gradually bring some degree of comfort to you who survive.
(130) Miriam Pinkerson, March 25, 2015 5:41 PM
Your shining love
I have no words, only tears for your loss. I admire the way your love shines through your grief and I pray that it will continue to light your way forward.
(129) Paulette Mandelbaum, March 25, 2015 4:21 PM
We are stricken with grief for the children who are no longer with us. We cannot grasp the dimensions of the tragedy and are humbled by your faith. May you be comforted along with the mourners of Zion.
(128) Amy Katz, March 25, 2015 3:46 PM
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Refuah shlemah.
May wonderful memories help you through your time of deep sorrow.
We send our deepest sympathy.
(127) Vern and Sheila Gideon, March 25, 2015 3:32 PM
May Hashem give you the strength to deal with this unspeakable loss. Our hearts are with you.
(126) Terry Neuman, March 25, 2015 3:30 PM
My heart aches
I cannot believe that seven young souls are gone--gone in an instant. It is a loss beyond words, beyond comprehension. My heart aches for the family and for all the lucky people who knew and loved these special children.
(125) Anonymous, March 25, 2015 2:46 PM
המקום ינחם אתכם בתוך שאר אבלי ציון וירושלים
B"H
I once heard that "המקום" ,the void that they leave, will comfort you.
May you know only Simchas!!
Your children are a sacrifice for the whole Klal Yisroel. May we be worthy of many miracles in their merit.
ישועות ורפואות
(124) Rizey and Yossi Schikman, March 25, 2015 2:32 PM
המקום ינחם אתכם בתוך שאר אבלי ציון וירושלים
Words do not suffice to express our sadness, May Hashem watch over all of you.
(123) Hadassa, March 25, 2015 2:19 PM
To Mr. Sasoon and the entire Sasoon & Gemal Family,
Just wanted you to know that ever since I've learned of the tragedy I have not stopped davening for you. I daven for super-human strength for you and that just as this whole event doesn't come close to entering the mind - it is so unfathomable, so too, TODAY!, we should all be re-united with the children and all of Klal Yisrael and the simcha and joy will be just as - if not more unfathomable as the scope for of this loss.
Each and every day I daven for this and will continue to do so until we all come home to Yerushalayim with Moshiach.
You and the children will never, ever be forgotten about or left alone.
If at any time there is something that I can do for you - please please call upon me.
You have risen me up to a level of closeness with Hashem that I have never had before.
Refuah Shelaima to Gila & Tzipora.
Besuros Tovos
(122) Dovid Rosenberg, March 25, 2015 2:06 PM
My heart is with you Gabby and Gayle
Hamakom yinachem eschem bsoch shaa'r aveili tzion v'yerushalayim. I dont know what else I can say but I'm with you and pray that Hashem gives you the strength and wherewithal to cope with this profound loss.
(121) Donna Perel, March 25, 2015 12:38 PM
BDE
There are no words....just a river of tears.
(120) Hadassa Miriam, March 25, 2015 12:01 PM
Our hearts and prayers are with you.
Our hearts and prayers are with you during your time of sorrow. We are so sorry for your loss and pray that Hashem will give you strength. Just know that the entire Jewish community is with you during this time. Refuah shlayma to Gila bas Francis and Tziporah bas Gila.
(119) Anonymous, March 25, 2015 12:01 PM
Condolences
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Refuah shlemah. May you be comforted amongst the mourners of Tzion.
(118) Anonymous, March 25, 2015 11:46 AM
Pure angels don't live here, they live near G-d.
So sad, and sorry for the father and their family.
(117) Naomi Nadata, March 25, 2015 11:39 AM
Our tefilot are with you
Our hearts are broken and our tears flow for the loss of your children, and we are davening for a refuah shlayma for your wife and daughter. May Hashem bring you nechama and chizuk.
(116) Anonymous, March 25, 2015 11:35 AM
So sad! My full condolences!
(115) Vicki, March 25, 2015 11:26 AM
words are not enough...
Praying for a full recovery and sending my love, have been hugging my kids more than humanly possible....Vicki
(114) Devorah goodman, March 25, 2015 11:23 AM
Contact
ברוך דין האמת I am really really sorry for your lost. I am shocked about it. I would love to help out in anyway possible so please feel free to contact me by email רפואה שלמה to everyone else. May hashem help you all get better quickly. Happy pesach Devorah Goodman
(113) Janice Pierce, March 25, 2015 11:14 AM
Given and taken for the Glory of Gd.
When we don't understand, or have answers for seasons like this, we must look to the hills from which cometh our,help.This was a model family, for the world's family ,love thy neighbor as thy self , the greatest of this,is love ye one another and this family that had been that and shown that love.He said, we must become like one of them, a honest,loving, caring, child. Now we must do what they taught is to do. Love ye one another.
(112) Stephanie, March 25, 2015 10:16 AM
My heart breaks for you.
(111) Debbie Yakobian, March 25, 2015 10:13 AM
My words cannot possibly relay my deepest felt sympathy.....but my heart is with the Sassoun family completely...רפואה מהירה ושלמה
(110) Anonymous, March 25, 2015 9:31 AM
Terrible tragedy. Wish all the family long life
(109) Sarit Rayburn, March 25, 2015 9:22 AM
Our hearts ache with you
This artcle is touching, each child sounds wonderful, whole, giving and loving. May HaShem grant you strengh and endurance during this difficult time. May their memory inspire and warm your hearts....
Hamakom yenachem otchem betoch shar avlie tzion veyerushalayim. Our thoughts are with you
(108) Pauline golda ridgeway, March 25, 2015 9:08 AM
Our thoughts are with you
I am so sorry to hear of the dreadful loss of these children. I pray for the full recovery of Gila bas Francis and Tziporah bas Gila and that HaShem should give Rabbi Sasson the strength to carry on.
(107) Anonymous, March 25, 2015 8:23 AM
terribly sorry for this horrendous tragedy
Terribly saddened to hear this awful news re the Sassoun family in New York City.
(106) ellenkates, March 25, 2015 7:28 AM
TEARS FOR YOYR LOSS
(105) Angela M Abraham, March 25, 2015 7:20 AM
What a sad tragedy for the Sassoon Family!
I first heard this news on television, and I just could not believe it. I hope they are now Hashem's little angels. May the mother and daughter be totally cured by all our prayers. What a terrible loss for Rabbi Sassoon and may Hashem give him strength to go on.
(104) Michaela, March 25, 2015 6:57 AM
Devastating
Heartbreaking and excruciatingly painful beyond belief for the family friends and for the Jewish people to endure .
Why 7 beautiful children must die on the 7th day of Shabbat .
Because of Shabbat they died. It makes no sense.
7 souls who will never marry and never have children .
All that potential for future generations of goodness and life is lost. What is H-shem trying to say ? Why did he not save them? Why were there no miracles ? It is too hard to see any good in this.
(103) Anonymous, March 25, 2015 6:42 AM
cant stop the tears
I feel like there are 7 penetrating holes in my heart right now which will never heal.
(102) Theresa, March 25, 2015 6:41 AM
Our prayers are with you...
Words cannot express the pain you must be feeling. In our own way, we are feeling that pain also.
Shalom
(101) Nellie kokin, March 25, 2015 5:50 AM
"Z " L' L'YALADIN SASSON
ELOHEINU SHOMER L'ANU, OMEIN, M' MISPACHAH KOKIN M' MELBOURNE, REBE SHELANU; ZVI KONIKOV.
(100) Hadassah, March 25, 2015 5:17 AM
We are here for you
I have not stopped thinking of the terrible news for the past three days.My heart goes out to you and you are in my tefilos.May HKB"H bring healing and the ultimate comfort.You are not alone the whole jewish nation stands by your side to help support you.
(99) Bat Leah, March 25, 2015 5:08 AM
We all ache with the sorrow of your terrible loss.
May there be Healing and Comfort to the entire family. From far and wide our hearts are with you.
May HaShem keep you and watch over you.
(98) Craig, March 25, 2015 4:25 AM
Our heartfelt condolences
Dear Mr. Sassoon,
There are no words that we are able to find to give you enough comfort & strength you need to be able to deal with the heart-wrenching pain of your horrific loss. Our heartfelt love, warmest thoughts, and prayers are with you, your wife and daughter. May the beautiful memories of your beloved children be a source of tremendous blessings for you, your wife & daughter, & may the love that each of your children had for you as parents and for each other as a family shine much light down from Shamayim to physically, emotionally & spiritually heal speedily your wife & daughter, and to also completely heal each of your devastated, broken hearts, emotional torment, pain, suffering & tears. Please know that we are praying for each of your special children's neshamas that they should each find eternal peace
in Gan Eden and eternal rest along with the other righteous souls before them and may they bask in the eternal light in Olam Haba. May you feel their Rays of love & light radiating down on each of you and may they watch over you at every moment that you should always feel the bright glow of their neshamas upon you. May Hashem comfort you among the mourners of Zion & Yerushalayim and may you know from no further sorrow or pain in your lives. Our hearts and souls are with you and your departed neshamas, and we pray for you all that Hashem shower his brochas of love, comfort, & the tremendous strength needed to endure the severe pain of your loss. We are with you and wish you all the love & strength you need. May Hashem wipe away all tears from upon your faces and grant his Nation peace by bringing Moshiach speedily in our time. B' Ahava :-(
(97) Richard Morcombe, March 25, 2015 4:00 AM
Our Condolences
On behalf of all the church family here at Renaissance Church, I send you our deepest condolences and assurances of our prayers to Hashem., May G-d grant you comfort; may He surround you with His great love and compassion. You are not alone or abandoned. Shalom
(96) Suzanne, March 25, 2015 3:53 AM
We feel your pain
I was devastated to read of this tragedy...it is difficult to understand WHY it would happen...it is G....d's will!
I pray that the parents find comfort in their community and their faith....may time help ease their pain.
(95) Robert hakimi, March 25, 2015 3:30 AM
Dear sasoon family, This tragedy is so painful that every heart is affected and feel the sorrow. Just by looking at family picture kept me crying without stop. I like to offer you my help in any way that is possible. Please accept my condolences and may HaShem send you the comfort to coop with this.
(94) Devorah, March 25, 2015 3:22 AM
My deepest condolences
To the Sassoon family, I don't know if you will ever read this but if you do I just wanted to say how sorry I am. Im truly heartbroken, as is the entire jewish nation. This was a tragedy beyond comprehension and all I want to do is cry all day long. We are in so much pain and I just want you to know that you are not alone. We stand together and Bzh will get through this together. My thoughts and tfillot are with you every minute of the day. These beautiful children will never be forgotten. May Hashem shower you with all the goodness in the world.
(93) Anonymous, March 25, 2015 3:21 AM
Soul & Family
May there soul rest in peace. May The Almighty grant this family with strength and happiness during this difficult time. Almighty bring the righteous messiah now. Amen.
(92) Debra, March 25, 2015 3:19 AM
Dear Mr and Mrs Sassoon and Tziporah...Your tragedy has moved me beyond comprehension. I will pray for strength, faith and restored health for all of you. May God hold you close in his gentle, loving arms during this time of grief and sorrow. I will never forget your family or your story.
(91) Miriam Almog, March 25, 2015 2:46 AM
My deepest condolences
I send my deepest condolences to the Sassoon family. All of the Jewish people is heartbroken over this terrible loss. No words can possibly provide any comfort, but we can pray to the A-lmighty to heal Mrs Sassoon and Tzipora, and to bring Moshiach right away!
(90) Anonymous, March 25, 2015 2:01 AM
In our hearts and thoughts...
There are no words to describe our sorrow for the loss...You and your family are in our collective hearts and tefillos..
(89) Anette Mor, March 25, 2015 1:55 AM
our deepest Sympathy
No words, no answer we cry with you and keep you in our hearts and prayers
Blessings and love
The Mor family
(88) Vivian, March 25, 2015 1:19 AM
I am Grieving with You and Your Family
Please know my heart goes out to your and your family. May the Eternal One our Father give you strength and comfort in a way that only He can give provide.
My deepest sympathy goes to you.
Sincerely,
Vivian
(87) Anonymous, March 25, 2015 1:12 AM
hamakom yenachem
we are all mourning with yu for yur beautiful children and the refua of yur wife and daughter
(86) devorah, March 25, 2015 1:10 AM
You are not alone
May Hashem give you continued strength. My heart is broken for you and I will bli neder try better to work on my patience with my children and may in this merit your precious angelic children should have an aliyah. And may they beseach the kisei shel Malchus and plead for Hashem to bring Mashiach. May your wife and daugther have a refua shelaima.
(85) Family Garber, London, March 25, 2015 12:58 AM
May you be comforted
Rabbi Sassoon, may you and your family be comforted among the mourners of Yerushalayim. All of Klal Yisroel mourns the tragic loss of your children, our children. May the achdus of Am Yisroel, the tefillohs and outpouring of support be a source of comfort to you at this time.
(84) Barry Herzog, March 25, 2015 12:46 AM
as former New Yorker from Far Rockaway
So sorry to read about your loses of your wonderful family My thoughts and prayers are there for you all Sz
(83) Helen Reisler, March 25, 2015 12:12 AM
My sincere condolences and love
May G-D embrace you and comfort you.
(82) Mary, March 25, 2015 12:11 AM
Be strong. Be strong. And then you will be strengthened.
I pray that Mrs. Sassoon and the little one recover soon.
Mr. Sassoon, your pain and loss is unimaginable to me, but trust in the Almighty to see you through this.
G-d bless.
(81) Ellen L Schwarz, March 24, 2015 11:46 PM
BD'E
all of klal yisroel is crying with you. May you be comforted with all the mourners of Tzion and Yerushalayim.
(80) Marlene Steiner, March 24, 2015 11:43 PM
My heart goes out to you
If there is anything that our family could do for your family!
Our prayers for your recovery for healing and for finding a purpose to go on. We are with you and grieving. May God give you strength. You have our love.
(79) Galit ... Australia, March 24, 2015 11:24 PM
WHY
To loose one child is sad ... but to loose seven innocent little souls is devastating ... the Jewish community is mourning with you ... as part of your family ... refuah shleimah ...
(78) Brad Seruya, March 24, 2015 11:01 PM
so devastating
I also knew them, & I still can't put the pain into words.
(77) thiya, March 24, 2015 10:55 PM
the pain is felt by klal yisrael
We comfort the bereaved by saying "Hamakom Yenachem ..." In the excruciating empty space that used to be so full of essence, the only thing that can fill that place is the Shechina.
Know that Hashem is loving you and embacing you close.
Iwill try lieluy neshamot, to value more the people in my life.
(76) Lyn, March 24, 2015 10:51 PM
May HaShem comfort you and hold you
There are no words to say or write. The enormity of the loss and the depth of the pain are overwhelming. I haven't been able to think about anything else since this happened. May HaShem hold you and comfort you from this day forward. Wishing refuah shlema to the injured. May you not know further pain and suffering. Klal Yisroel is praying for you. The seven beautiful neshamot are with HaShem. May they rest in peace.
(75) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 10:47 PM
We are born with a purpose and one day we will know what our purpose was. Our hearts hurt along with yours.
(74) Ana, March 24, 2015 10:47 PM
There is a reason for this.
May G-d have them embraced in his arms looking down on his parents. May G-d embrace their parents at this time of pain. He had a reason for this. He is the almighty and he is loved.
(73) Rechel Rivka, March 24, 2015 10:29 PM
My hear aches for you. I have been crying for the loss of your beautiful children. I lost a daughter so I know only a part of your horrible pain. I heard what you said about surrendering and Hashem"s plans . You have a special Emunah and that will let you survive this and know that your children are being well taken care of and that you will see them again one day. I hope that day will come soon for us all and that your wife and daughter will have a Refuah Shelayma soon. May Hashem continue to help you!
(72) Emunah, March 24, 2015 10:24 PM
Mr. Sassoon
.Please know that KLal Yisrael mourns this heartbreaking loss with you. Our prayers go out to you, Gila Bat Francis and Tzipora Bat Gila.
(71) Zena Cohen, March 24, 2015 10:14 PM
Sincere condolences
My heartfelt condolences go out to the family. I hope that they receive all the love and support that they need at present and that Hashem will help them through this awful time.
(70) Reshel, March 24, 2015 10:11 PM
nichum aveilim
May Has-hem comfort you among the mourners of zion.
May Has-hem bring a speedy end to this golus.
May we see techiyas hameisim swiftly.
(69) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 10:04 PM
may you only have simhas
May their only be good in your life's G-d willing
(68) Judith Herzog, March 24, 2015 9:52 PM
We mourn together, our tears flow as one
I am a mother and grandmother, and there are no words to describe the grief I feel for you. We mourn as one people, one family, for the terrible loss of our sweet children. May we find some small bit of peace in the memories of their happy faces, and know that they have touched all Israel.
(67) Sophia&Robert Chatov, March 24, 2015 9:16 PM
We are with you in our hearts.
We can only write that we're thinking of you and pray that The Sassons have the strength to carry on. May you find comfort in your children's memories and may they be resting in the arms of Hashem.
(66) dvorah, March 24, 2015 8:58 PM
May Hashem be with you
May Hashem give a speedy and complete recovery to Gila and Tziporah, may Moschiach come speedily to restore the lives of all our Jewish mishpoha who have passed on
(65) Robin Denison, March 24, 2015 8:56 PM
Baruch Dayan HaEmes
May your faith in H-shem keep you strong, and may He help you with healing.
(64) Danielle, March 24, 2015 8:46 PM
You and your children are constantly in my tfillos and thoughts. HaShem should bless you with much nachama and an Aliya for your children's neshamas.
(63) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 8:30 PM
My heart breaks. What is the point of religion ? What with this
latest tragedy & Paedophilia ? Plus the continuous hatred of
Jews.
(62) Chaim Ephraim, March 24, 2015 8:27 PM
In loving memory
HaMakom Yenachem Otam Betoch Sha'ar Avlei Tziyon VeYerushalayim.The whole of Am Yisrael is holding you and crying with you.We will never leave you;you are with us in our prayers and we study Torah in your honor and memory.May Hashem grant a complete healing to Gila and Tziporah
(61) Tamara, March 24, 2015 8:27 PM
May Hashem grant you peace serenity and happiness I have no other words except I send you comfort and I am really thinking of you You are an inspiration and have encouraged unity I am so sorry, it is easier to say than to internalise but gam zu letovah
(60) Chayelle, March 24, 2015 8:23 PM
Aliyois for their holy neshomos
Our entire school in England is crying with you, we have been completing the sefer tehillim every day and are taking on things as aliyois for their special neshomois.
Hamokoim yenachem eschem
(59) GINETTE ZINI- ASSOULINE, March 24, 2015 7:54 PM
ALL MY DEEP CONDOLENCES TO ALL THE FAMILY
I share your deepest sorrow for this indescribable loss of these beautiful and loving angels. my heart is aching even I did not know them and I pray GOD TO HELP YOU in this tragic moment of your life, .All Jewish families are united in this profound pain because they know what is the real love and commitment for the siblings. Courage ! we cry with you.
(58) Ernest Josef, March 24, 2015 7:51 PM
Our hearts are filled with love to you and your beautiful family.
(57) Victoria Raun, March 24, 2015 7:43 PM
May their memories be for a blessing
Dear Gabby, Gail, and Tziporah: By all accounts, you are a wonderful family. Please accept my condolences. I am sure the memories of your children, brothers and sisters will be for a blessing as family, friends and neighbors remember their love and kindness.
(56) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 7:39 PM
My Condolences
My heart breaks for this family. I am so sorry about your tremendous loss.
(55) Adina, March 24, 2015 7:19 PM
I am crying with you.
May G-d give you the strength to persevere.
Anonymous, March 25, 2015 4:04 AM
Ein milim
There are no words to comfort; only "Hamakom" will do that with time. I was literally sickened upon hearing of your excruciating loss. It is unfathomable. May Hashem give you the koach to continue living, and He should grant the bereaved mother and sister a speedy recovery. May you know no more tzaar.
(54) Marcia Robkin, March 24, 2015 7:15 PM
refuah shlemah
My heartfelt thoughts go out to you and your beautiful family. To Mr. Sassoon, may Hashem give you strength to carry on. To Gila and Tziporah refuah shlema. May you get well soon.
Regards., Marcia Robkin
(53) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 7:11 PM
we share your pain
I share your pain as a parent, having lost so much of what is the purpose of your lives, while hoping and davening for Tziporah's refuah. i share your pain as a spouse, having to hold together the fragments and comfort each other through the sea of pain and loss, while davening for the healing of Gila. The sadness is too vast, but through this tragedy-
Through your tremendous loss, Your family has given us unity- You should be comforted.
(52) Yaakov Shmuel, March 24, 2015 6:56 PM
No words to say...
My heart is broken with the news of the children. We are praying for refuah shleimah for the injured and for shalom for the dad and extended family.
(51) Betty, March 24, 2015 6:47 PM
We are with you
We are all in collective mourning, the Jewish soul is bound up together, may Ha-shem bring the Moshiach speedily so we know no more suffering.
(50) adele shapiro, March 24, 2015 6:42 PM
This is an unspeakable tragedy that no words can describe.
When I first read about this tragedy I thought it is not possible for such a tragedy to have happened to one family.
Klal Yisroel is praying for u both to have strength to bear the unbearable pain & loss.No words can express the horror of this terrible tragedy.
(49) Marcia, March 24, 2015 6:38 PM
Very sad
There are no words to say to this parents. It's much to horrible and deeply disturbing. To loose a child is unimaginable let alone 7. I pray that God give you strength .
(48) Adeola, March 24, 2015 6:30 PM
Our heart.
May the Lord's Spirit pull you through, carry you out and be your solace for only He can walk with us through the valley.
Please accept my condolences. My prayers are with you.
(47) Elaine, March 24, 2015 6:27 PM
Please accept my condolences for your tragic loss. I hope you
find comfort in your memories and in the love that Jews everywhere feel for you. I wish you peace.
(46) Linda Rivera, March 24, 2015 6:11 PM
Precious Children
I'm heartbroken. When these beautiful children died, lights went out in the world. May HaShem give you the comfort, peace and strength that only He can give.
(45) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 6:10 PM
Not my place
To give chuzuk to you. It's a tragedy that i can't think about straightly myself. However i along with all of Klal Yisrael feel the pain. I feel as if we're one big family sharing this enormous loss. I am at a loss for words. But not at a loss to tell you how much we care for you. May Hashem fill our days with gladness and may we know of no more sorrow.
(44) robin maryles jacobowitz, March 24, 2015 5:42 PM
Thank you for sharing these stories.
The whole nation of Israel is crying with this family....
Our thoughts and prayers are with them......
"Min hashamayim tenuchamu"
Liora, March 24, 2015 6:45 PM
my only consolation is that Hashem wanted them early because they were all TOO GOOD FOR THIS EARTH!!
(43) Susie Davidson, March 24, 2015 5:41 PM
My sincere condolences
Yes, there are no words - but people the world over are praying for you.
(42) Leah, March 24, 2015 5:40 PM
Dear Gabriel and Gila and Tzippora,
There are no adequate words to describe what I am my friends are feeling at this moment for your loss. Klal Yisroel is in pain. We simply cannot understand this. We cannot understand.
There are no adequate words. There are none. We are saddened. I am praying for Moshiach to come and you and klal Yisroel to be reunited with your loved ones.
I am seriously taking on the mitzvah of viewing each child as precious and literally stopping my mouth when I am about to speak loshon hora. I sometimes feel I am justified when the person has brought me pain, yet the truth is I really should keep it to myself and only look for a solution to the issues at hand- not whine and "vent" as though somehow this is ok.
I pray for both your precious wife and your beloved child to have a refuah shelaimoh.
You are our brother and we are crying bechiah leib.
You, Gila are our sister and we have only tears.
Tzipporah, May you and your mother heal and may we all welcome Moshiach so very very soon.
Susan H., March 25, 2015 9:04 AM
Complete surrender......
Without adequate words, only floods of tears, we all ask about what could possibly comfort this family and have them forge on and for what exact purpose? No one could have expressed it better than Gabriel Sassoon, himself. Through raw and unfathomable anguish, your pure sheep (children) must truly have been a sacrifice for klal Israel. Only from such a Tzaddik and a great woman of valor could Hashem call back these angels to be by his side, for a reason we just don't know. We will always be with you, not only to support and grieve.....but to learn what Hashem needs from us, through your heart-wrenching sacrifice. May we merit to see more ba'ale teshuva, do more chesed, more mitzvot....all the things that those who knew your family said that you did, humbly and tirelessly. And most of all, Hashem....please.....Moshiach now, that we can as promised, all be together, again. Not one of us should know from this, anymore! R'Rosman, thank you for giving us a glimpse into the characteristics of the beautiful neshamas of your dear friends, the Sassoons. Through tehillim, we will continue to daven for Gila, and Tziporah.
(41) Community Shaarei Tsedek, Willemstad, Curacao,, March 24, 2015 5:39 PM
Please accept condolences of the entire Community in Curacao.
May HaShem give you the strength and support to cope with this tragic loss.
(40) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 5:22 PM
Prayers
May the divine comfort of HaShem infuse your hearts and minds.
(39) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 5:17 PM
VERY DEAR SASSOON FAMILY,
FROM A BROKEN HEART - DIRECTLY FROM SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL,
HOW MUCH PAIN CAN A HUMAN BEING ENDURE? AS ONE CAN WELL SEE - THERE IS NO LIMIT TO QUANTIFY OR QUALIFY PAIN!
AS MR. SASSOON WELL SAID - WE ARE ALL TOGETHER IN THIS PLIGHT - AND TOGETHER WE ARE STRONGER. THIS IS NOT A TIME TO ASK QUESTIONS - JUST A TIME TO FEEL TOGETHER...
LET HASHEM SHOW US THE WAY TO PASS THROUGH THIS UNBELIEVABLE AND UNEXPECTED AFFLICTION....LET US PRAY TOGETHER, LET US ASK FOR MERCY ...LET US ASK FOR WISDOM TO UNDERSTAND HASHEM´S WAYS AND WISHES...LET HASHEM PROVIDE US WITH STRENGTH TO CONTINUE OUR LIVES WITH HONOUR AND BLESSINGS!
DEAR FAMILY - YOU MUST BE VERY SPECIAL IN THE EYES OF HASHEM - FOR HE IS SHOWING US THAT LIFE IS ABOVE PLIGHT - WITH "HIS" HOLY SPIRIT.
DO NOT LOOK FOR ANSWERS - WHERE THERE ARE NONE!
REMAIN STRONG AND LOOK FORWARD TO THE FUTURE AS "BEING A CHOSEN FAMILY" - FOR YOU MUST BE SPECIAL!
I DO HOPE MY EMAIL WILL REACH YOU - AND IF IT DOES HAPPEN - I WOULD REALLY BE HONOURED TO HEAR FROM YOU!
PLEASE, FEEL FREE TO WRITE TO MY E-MAIL - AND DO COUNT ON ME ANY TIME!
SINCERELY YOURS,
MILA.
(38) Hazel and Peter, March 24, 2015 5:05 PM
We are grandparents in California. We do not know the family. Our hearts are broken for them. We cannot find words to express ourselves. We pray and hope HaShem has a plan for the family that they should have no more grief. We cry for you.
(37) Miriam Gomes de Freiats, March 24, 2015 5:03 PM
Condolences to the Sassoon family
I send my condolences to the Sassoon family.
God gives you strength to stand this tragedy.
(36) Rhoda, March 24, 2015 5:02 PM
May G-D rest their souls.
(35) Karen, March 24, 2015 4:56 PM
My heart aches for you.
My Hashem find a way to bring you peace and comfort.
(34) Miriam Ollech, March 24, 2015 4:56 PM
Your pain is our pain
No words to describe the depth of pain we all share with you. May HKB'H give you the strength needed and may Moshiach's speedy coming reunite us all.
(33) Jodi Robertson, March 24, 2015 4:51 PM
Sending love and prayers
Dear Mr. Sassoon,
I have no words but please know that we are praying/davening for you, for your wife, for your daughter ~ Refuah Shlema.
May strength be given to you from the Most High, blessed is He, and may, as you requested, love spring forth unto every single Jewish soul one to another in honor of your beautiful children.
Sending all our love and heart poured out before HaShem.
The Robertson Family
Pennsylvania, USA
(32) Rae, March 24, 2015 4:45 PM
We feel your pain!
Hashem should give u the strength u so much need to get through this very challenging time. You are in my prayers and thoughts every day. Hashem be with you. Rae G.
(31) Susan Leff, March 24, 2015 4:43 PM
Prayers hugs sent your way xo
My heart breaks for your family. I pray that you find comfort knowing that you are surrounded by so much love and prayers. I pray for a speedy recovery for your wife and daughter. Sending lots if love hugs prayers your way xo
(30) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 4:35 PM
Prayers and Tehillim Being Sent
So deeply praying for you, Mr. Sassoon and your family.
Tehillim is being said for a Refuah Shalamah with Aneinu twice a day.
(29) Miriam, March 24, 2015 4:33 PM
B"H My prayers go to you and your family and friends. HaShem is watching over you and will give you the strength to go on. He knows the goodness of the children and the kindness of the entire family. The world loves you but we do not say that often enough to each other. I love you.
(28) Sybil Barer, March 24, 2015 4:32 PM
You are deep in our hearts and prayers at this time of unbelievable shocking tragedy to pure souls.
The heart and soul of all Jews are in prayer, shock, disbelief.
May I join the world in hope that these pure souls together at peace in heaven will watch over you, your family, and Israel. May Hashem give you strength and help Gila bas Francis and Ziporah bas Gila to recover.
(27) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 4:29 PM
We grieve with you.
(26) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 4:29 PM
HaMakom Yerachem
BS"D
Now we can say Baruch Dayan HaEmes, but soon it will be transformed into HuHetiv HuMetiv. May HK"B carry you and your wife and daughter and grant you super human strength.
(25) michelle, March 24, 2015 4:23 PM
Tears are still streaming down my face after reading this article. My deepest and most heart felt sympathies. I pray peace will find this family. May God be with you.
(24) Yehudit Elias, March 24, 2015 4:21 PM
Dear Sasson family
My heart is crying with you! Just know that others are sharing your pain. May you be blessed among all the mourners of Zion & Jerusalem! Refuah Shleima to Gail & Tzipporah! I will keep davening for them!
(23) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 4:15 PM
My heart is broken for this whole family.
My heart is broken with the pain for this lovely family.
Words are inadequate..just a huge sadness that this happened.
Mrs.Mollie Rothman
(22) James Cooke, March 24, 2015 4:08 PM
No one is able to know what you're going through unless of course they have been in that position. I haven't and would prefer not to be. However my heart aches for you and I don't even know you, it aches for your children, such sweet and innocent. I have children and grandchildren and would be totally devastated just as I know you are. We're not allowed to ask why? Hashem knows. But for you my friend I grieve, I will cry in remembrance of your children. But for you I pray strength.
(21) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 4:07 PM
No words can discribe what you are going through. As a community we feel the pain and can only pray that god be with you and us. The words you shared as a eulogy is so profound that I could only imagine what wonderful children you must have raised. The words that are being spoken about the children and family must only be the tip of outrageous and inspirational qualities that you all shared. May Hashem watch over them and your family and help guide you and everyone into a place where one can find peace clearity and healing. May your wife and daughter get well with a full recovery and have the strength to continue on.
(20) naftali, March 24, 2015 4:05 PM
Most tragic even that can happen to a person
My thoughts & blessings to you, wife, & daughter, try try try to recoup & carry on for AM YISROEL & MIDINAT YISROEL. WE NEED PEOPLE LIKE YOU, OUR LASTING HOPE FOR SURVIVAL. DEEPEST LOVE & APPRECIATION FROM BOTTOM OF MY HEART. NAFTALI
(19) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 4:02 PM
Condolences
Your family was a most beautiful one and you have inspired so very may people with your comportment since the tragedy. There are no words of comfort that I can think of giving, but would like you to know that I and many others will truly try to be more careful about ahavat yisrael in honor of your most beautiful family. שה' ינחם אותך
(18) Felicity, March 24, 2015 4:01 PM
TRAGEDY
What devastation to fall on one family. Speechless .
(17) Marie Bickof, March 24, 2015 4:01 PM
Heartbroken at horrific tragedy and may the parents be confted among the mourners of Zion and Jderusalem - wishing Gila, her daughter and all the family a long and healthy life.
I am at a loss to try and understand how Hashem could allow this terribly tragic and cruel event to have occurred. They were observant menschen who did not deserve to be punished like this.
(16) Beryl Bloch, March 24, 2015 3:58 PM
Loss for words for your loss.
May Hashem comfort your hearts, I can not begin to know the pain of your loss. May healing be your portion.
(15) Shelly, March 24, 2015 3:57 PM
Condolences
I cannot describe the unimaginable feeling of loss and pain that Mr Sassoon is going through. I read the story with shock and horror. Seven innocent angels are gone. Two beautiful people are in dire need of our prayers and Tehillim. I am a proud Jew, but not observant (other than following a few commandments of Kashrut). I feel the need to do more. Similar to last year when I took upon myself the mitzvah of lighting Shabbos candles for "Our Three Boys" -Gilad, Eyal, & Naftali. May HaShem comfort Mr & Mrs Sassoon and may Gila bat Francis and Tzipporah bar Gila have a Refuah Shlema. Amen
(14) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 3:57 PM
OUR HEARTS JUST BREAK FOR THE FAMILY.
MAY HASHEM AND THE JEWISH FAMILY BRING YOU COMFORT.
MAY WE GREET MOSHIACH IN ACTUALITY, NOW! CHAYA
(13) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 3:53 PM
May you be comforted among the mourners of Zion and know no more tsar. My heart and prayers are with you and your loved ones
It is such a terrible tragedy and hashem should iy"h give all of you the koach to handle it and within time come to realize that everything comes from hashem and he knows what is good for us
(12) AS, March 24, 2015 3:52 PM
We share in your pain.
K'lal Yisrael shares in your unspeakable pain.
(11) betty, March 24, 2015 3:47 PM
Our heartfelt condolences to the Sassoon family. May God give them strength and bear this horrible loss. God speed recovery to Mrs Sassoon and her daughter. What can one really say at this sad tragic time ? May the children rest in peace.
(10) Valerie Toledano, March 24, 2015 3:33 PM
There are no words that we can say to really ease your pain. Please just know that you are in our hearts and thoughts as are your sweet angels. We pray for the healthy recovery of Gila and Her daughter Tziporah and may hashem give them the strength to face their beyond words Tracey. Just writing this I am thinking of your family and am all choked up. Please us your inner strength and community strength to continue on your life.
(9) barbara stern, March 24, 2015 3:29 PM
too sad
I just want to send my prayers to this family. There are no words for this. 7 beautiful children , crying writing this
(8) Rhoda, March 24, 2015 3:25 PM
Prayers
Prayers to the Sasoon family on the loss of these beautiful angels. They are in the hands of G-d, sheltered with his love. May their memories be for a blessing.
(7) Darcy, March 24, 2015 3:25 PM
My heart breaks for you
I just lost my mother on March 8, may she rest in peace. However, she lived a long life. In the midst of my own pain, I cannot fathom the pain of burying one's children. Please take whatever solace you can in your loving memories of them. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
(6) Laura, March 24, 2015 3:03 PM
Please let the Sassoon family know that the world is standing with them in thoughts and prayers.
(5) Shep Jeffreys, March 24, 2015 3:02 PM
Strength Peace Faith
May you be blessed with Strength, Peace and continued Faith.
(4) Eli, March 24, 2015 2:33 PM
תנוחמו מן השמים
תנוחמו מן השמים
(3) Anonymous, March 24, 2015 2:04 PM
There are no words. Hoping for the family's complete recovery. May Hashem bless them and grant them the strength to deal with the loss.
(2) izzy, March 24, 2015 1:13 PM
Such a tragedy!
My heart and prayers are with the family! May they be comforted with mourners of Zion.
(1) Ruth Cohen, March 24, 2015 12:53 PM
I too went to the funeral here in Jerusalem
Shalom to family Sasson
Shmuel(my husband) and I would like to tell you that we are so sad about your loss of your lovely children. No we dont know the family personally.
As my husband was far too upset to go with me to the funeral, like many here who could not, it was just too hard for them.
After the children were buried, me and 2 friends drove down to the graves and there were only about ten people still there. As we were going back to the car a young man approached us asking for a lift, and in the car he told me this.
He was at the techana mercazit and suddenly he felt this urge to walk all the way to the graves of the children and he could not explain why. He said he could not accept that this really happened and had to be there in person to see the graves to begin to deal with it.He was in shock and extremely upset which is the most common reaction to this huge tragedy.
I stood at the grave saying it is not right, it is not right, it is not right to be burying our children.
For those who are not aware of this, here in Jerusalem going to funerals a amazing thing happens. When you stand by the grave especially of the children, you feel the most amazing energy pouring out, it is quiet incredible and mere words cannot ever explain it. It is super natural and so overwhelming and powerful. Last night the energy was even more powerful than normal and very very hard to stand in front of 7 little graves.
May we only know joys and happiness and may all the pain and sorrow be all wiped away soon.