Dear Temple Beth El Family,
Only six weeks after writing about the horrific shootings across the country, we are devastated to be writing again in response to more unnecessary loss of life. Yesterday, during a July 4th Parade, at least six people were killed, and dozens injured in Highland Park, Illinois. We mourn with the Highland Park community, and particularly with North Shore Congregation Israel, who tragically lost beloved employee, Jacki Sundheim.
As a community committed to creating a more just and peaceful world, we know that words are not enough to end the epidemic of gun violence. As we shared last month, we anticipate that our next phase of social justice and action work at Temple Beth El will include a social justice TriBE committed to working to end gun violence. If you would like to be included in that initiative, please reach out to Nicole Sidman. We also invite you to view a brief statement from the leadership of the Reform Movement and view resources on Gun Violence Prevention from the Religious Action Center.
May our community help to bring about peace in our time. May the memories of the victims bring blessings to their loved ones. May we have the courage and fortitude to continue to seek change in our country.
Oseh shalom bimromav Hu ya’aseh shalom…
May the One who creates peace in the heavens,
create peace for us, for all Israel, and for all of humanity.
Sincerely,
Rabbi Asher Knight
Cantor Mary R. Thomas
Rabbi Lexi Erdheim
Rabbi Beth Nichols
