Temple News

It’s a week later, and our attention is still very much focused on Israel.  We continue to pray for peace and protection for Israel and all who defend Israel from its enemies.  It was wonderful to come together last week for our “Stand With Israel Shabbat.”  We are grateful that so many people came to services and participated in our discussions about what is happening in Israel and our reactions to the war that is ongoing with Hamas.

Cantor Garfein and I both want you to know that we are here for you – and that Temple Sinai proudly stands with Israel.  We are also proud of the way the Jewish community has come together in solidarity and support for Israel and will continue to do so.

This afternoon the Jewish Federation is holding a vigil at 5:30pm at Lafayette Square with leaders from the Jewish community and of Greater New Orleans.  In explaining the purpose of the event, Federation writes: “Tonight we will come together to mourn those lost and pray for those held hostage to be returned safely to their families. Together we will seek healing and call for a complete rejection of terrorism. We will pray for the civilians of Israel and Gaza, and we will pray for the safety of the soldiers - many of whom are barely adults themselves - and pray for their wisdom and humanity as they face life and death. Collectively we will pray for peace, for the dream of a world without violence, without bomb shelters, without guarded border crossings, and without war.”

We will hold our next Wednesday Night Live discussion this evening at 7:00pm on Zoom.  We will discuss the war in Israel, the latest news and updates, and our own personal and communal responses to what is happening in Israel.  I hope that you will join with me this evening.

At services this Shabbat, we will continue to include special prayers, readings, and music for Israel and for peace.  May God grant strength to our people, and may God bless us and all of Israel with peace.