Friends, please forgive this email on Shabbat; the situation warrants it. Like many of you, I woke up this morning to the horrific news that Israel is at war after Hamas launched a devastating surprise attack on multiple Israeli towns, firing thousands of rockets into the country. Hamas terrorists infiltrated numerous towns and villages on the southern border kidnapping IDF soldiers and Israeli civilians and attacking and killing Jewish citizens on

the ground and in their homes. At this hour, at least 70 Israelis have been killed and over 900 have been wounded.

This attack comes 50 years and 1 day after the start of the 1973 Yom Kippur War and on the final day of Sukkot – Z’man Simchateinu - our festival of joy and welcoming. Sukkot, celebrated by welcoming guests into temporary huts, open to the elements is a powerful reminder of our inherent fragility and the impermanence of life.

Attacking innocent Israeli civilians during Jewish holidays is uniquely abhorrent. My heart is heavy this morning as I pray for the safety and healing of all who are suffering and for peace throughout the land. If any of you have family in Israel, I offer fervent prayers for their safety, strength and comfort. At this shocking moment, it is more critical than ever we stand in solidarity with Israel.

I will update you as more information becomes available with ways for you to be in action in support of Israel including how to contribute to emergency campaigns that are currently being organized by Jewish Federations across the country. As I said on Kol Nidre, “Kol Yisrael aravim zeh be zeh” – All Israel is responsible for one another – you, me and our entire TBC Family joined in solidarity. Am Yisrael Chai….

B’shirah uv’rachah – In song and blessing,

Cantor Harriet Dunkerley