The Bibas family expressed deep gratitude on Wednesday for the overwhelming support they received from Israelis across the country, including a touching tribute to their murdered children during the Purim holiday.
In a Facebook post managed by the family, they shared their emotional reaction to the widespread display of affection, which included Israeli schoolchildren and adults dressing as Batman—Ariel Bibas’s favourite superhero—as a tribute to the 4-year-old, who was murdered by Hamas terrorists. “The heart missed a beat twice today,” the post read. “Once, when we woke up to a morning without new photos of Ariel and Kfir dressed up for Purim, and the second time when we saw all the incredible gestures on the streets of Israel.”
The family reflected on the profound impact that Ariel and his 9-month-old brother, Kfir, had on the nation, despite their tragic deaths. “Time after time during the last almost year and a half, and especially during the last few weeks, you have shown us that Ariel and Kfir will never leave us. They are in the heart of the nation and will always remain so. Those who were a symbol of Hamas’s cruelty, are now a symbol of unity and hope for the people of Israel.”
Ariel and Kfir, along with their mother, Shiri, were abducted from their home and murdered by Hamas terrorists during the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led massacre in Gaza.
The Bibas family also expressed their appreciation for the support shown at the funeral, during the shivah, and through ongoing efforts to bring back the hostages still held in Gaza. “Just as we were so moved to see the costumes, we were equally moved to see you at the funeral procession, at the shivah and also when we saw you call to continue returning those hostages who remain in captivity,” they wrote. “Thank you, our dear people of Israel.”
As of now, 59 hostages remain in Gaza, including two dozen believed to still be alive.
Prayer Requests:
- For Comfort for the Bibas Family: Let us pray for the ongoing comfort of the Bibas family, that they may feel the presence of God in their sorrow and receive peace beyond understanding.
- For the Healing of the Nation of Israel: Pray for healing and strength for the people of Israel, that the grief and pain caused by the violence will be met with God’s peace and a renewed sense of unity.
- For the Safe Return of Hostages: Pray for the safe return of the hostages still held in Gaza, including those believed to be alive, and for their families as they endure the uncertainty and pain of separation.
- For the Salvation of Israel: Pray that in these times of suffering, many will come to know the love and hope found in Jesus Christ. May His peace reign in the hearts of all who grieve and in the land of Israel.
- For Strength for the Church: Pray that the global Christian community will continue to stand in prayer and support for Israel, that the Church will be a source of strength and encouragement in times of hardship.
Let us unite in prayer, asking for God’s mercy, healing, and peace to surround Israel and the Bibas family during this time of profound loss and grief.
