Shalom, chaverim. Our world needs shalom!
The horrible attack on elderly Jewish Americans in Boulder, Colorado, on Sunday surely left us all longing desperately for peace. It's easy to feel isolated and afraid as violent anti-Jewish hate seems to be growing in our nation. I want to comfort you with the news that already two Christian pastors and one Muslim lay leader have reached out to us to offer us their support and friendship. We are not, in truth, alone.
One brave and articulate member of the Center did a powerful and beautiful personal Facebook post about her own heartbreak and rage, a post that urged non-Jewish people to check in on their Jewish friends to let them know that they care about them. This is one important thing that we can do at this time: engage in personal outreach to build community support.
If you are in need of conversation or prayer, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. We have prevailed against even more challenging times than these, and we will prevail again. Remember: you are not alone.
In the meantime, let's focus on the good and the great in our own community:
- This past Sunday was a marvelous day, one that filled my heart and that I will always remember and cherish. We launched our community garden and then celebrated the seven-year partnership that is coming to a close between the QC Jewish community and Phil and me. To all who planned the party, all who helped prepare for it, all who brought food for the potluck, and all who attended, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
- The postcard campaign to preserve the SNAP nutritional program we launched this weekend continues — if you have not had time to write or sign a postcard, please do so!
- This weekend is our second annual Pride Shabbat. Please celebrate our inclusive, affirming community and all our members with us!
The best response to anti-Jewish hatred is to stand up as Jews, to come together as Jews to celebrate our unique and wonderful heritage. Let's do so together!
L’shalom,
Rabbi Linda
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