Dear B’nai Jehudah Family,

It is with broken hearts that we write to you today. Our beloved community has been struck by devastating tragedy.

We mourn the loss of Sarah Milgrim, a proud member of our congregation, a devoted Zionist and a radiant presence in every space she entered. Sarah, who was serving at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., was fatally shot alongside her partner, Yaron Lischinsky, in what is being investigated as a deeply disturbing antisemitic attack.

Each and every time we saw Bob and Nancy Milgrim, they kvelled and beamed with joy and pride about Sarah’s work and her steadfast devotion to Judaism and to Israel. Her commitment wasn’t just professional; it was deeply personal, rooted in her upbringing, her values and her unshakable identity.

Sarah grew up in our community. She celebrated with us, learned with us and inspired us with her integrity and purpose. She stood for something larger than herself and she paid the ultimate price for it.

Our hearts ache for Bob, Nancy, Jacob and all their extended family- cherished members of our congregation, who are now bearing an unspeakable loss. We stand beside them, holding them close in our hearts and in our prayers. We will let you know when we will gather to remember Sarah’s life, to mourn together and to reaffirm the values that guided hers.

At a time when hate feels close, we respond not with fear, but with unity. Not with silence, but with resolve. Sarah’s life and legacy demand nothing less.

May her memory be a blessing, and may we carry her light forward with courage and love.

With profound sorrow,

Rabbi Stephanie Kramer and all of our B’nai Jehudah Family