Remembering Holocaust Memorial Day

Photo: Mazur/cbcew.org.uk

Source: CBCEW

Archbishop Mark O'Toole, Archdiocese of Cardiff-Menevia, has issued the following Message to mark the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Auschwitz.

"Today we recall the horror of the Holocaust, marking the 80th Anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, when the world began to know more fully the depravity of the genocide perpetrated by the Nazis.

"We pray for those who perished during this unspeakable crime against the Jewish people.

"In remembering the victims of the Holocaust, we pray for all victims of genocide. May we all work to rid our society, and all nations, of anti-Semitism and all forms of hatred based on race, culture or religion.

"At this time especially, we pray to the God of peace and justice, that a true and lasting peace will take deep root in Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, the Holy Land, and the entire Middle East."

Last Wednesday, 22 January, All Saints Catholic College in Notting Hill Gate, London, hosted the Holocaust Educational Trust's Live Webcast as part of the Holocaust Memorial Day commemorations. Year 9 and 10 students were joined by Natasha Kaplinsky OBE, who interviewed Mala Tribich MBE, a survivor of the Ravensbrück and later Bergen-Belsen concentration camps.

2025 marks a significant milestone for Holocaust Memorial Day, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. The occasion highlights the importance of educating young people about the Holocaust, and developing an understanding of the catastrophic consequences of hatred and intolerance when left unchallenged.

Natasha sensitively guided Mala through her harrowing yet inspiring story of heartbreak, resilience, and survival. Students in both the live audience and those tuning in online had the chance to ask questions about Mala's faith, inner strength, and her hopes for the future. Televised to over 20,000 schools, organisations, and individuals across the country, the webcast emphasised the critical importance of hearing survivors' testimonies first-hand-an opportunity that is becoming increasingly rare as time passes.

The event was an invaluable experience for the students in attendance. Reflecting on the interview, several students shared their thoughts, with one noting:

'As Mala said, we're now witnesses too, so we can remember and prevent it from ever happening again.'