Dear Temple Beth El Family,
As we prepare to light the first candle of Chanukah this evening, our hearts are in Sydney, following the horrific attack on the Jewish community at a public menorah lighting on Bondi Beach.
We join the Jewish communities in Australia and across the globe, as we mourn the victims of this violent, antisemitic attack, in which multiple people were murdered, including Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who served his community there for nearly two decades. We pray for the recovery of many more who were injured.
What happened in Sydney is not distant from us. Jews were targeted. That reality is painful and sobering. In this moment, we remember that the lesson taught by the miracle of Chanukah is not that darkness disappears, but that we spread light anyway. We choose to stand up to hatred. We choose community, continuity, and strength over hiding in the shadows. Chanukah reminds us that Jewish visibility has always required courage. Our answer to that truth is not retreat, but pride. Not silence, but presence.
Our Community’s Safety
As always, the safety of our community is our highest priority and is approached with the utmost seriousness and care. At Shalom Park, our established security protocols remain firmly in place, including vigilant and visible security measures and an ongoing law enforcement presence. We continue to work closely with law enforcement, Jewish communal security professionals, and community partners to ensure preparedness and coordination. Security is not a departure from our values. It is an expression of them, and our commitment to your safety is unwavering.
Being Together Matters
In moments like this, being in community matters. We invite you to celebrate Chanukah together, including with our congregation at Chanukah Shabbat Evening Services and Congregational Dinner this Friday, and in your homes as you light candles with family and friends. We also hope you’ll join us on Thursday, December 18, as the Charlotte Symphony’s Festival of Lights concert brings the broader Charlotte community together to celebrate Chanukah.
Wherever you are celebrating, may the lights we kindle strengthen hope and remind us of the courage of the Maccabees. Gathering is an act of resilience and care, and we strengthen one another through the power of presence.
If you are feeling anxious, grieving, or simply in need of support, our clergy are here for you. Please contact Renata Rosenberg, Clergy Assistant, and we will ensure you are connected.
We will grieve and remain committed to connected, proud, meaningful Jewish living. We will continue to show up for one another. And we will keep lighting candles.
May the memories of those who were killed be for a blessing. May healing come swiftly to the wounded. And may we continue to choose presence, care, and life.
With gratitude and resolve,
Rabbi Asher Knight
Cantor Danielle Rodnizki
Rabbi Lexi Erdheim
Rabbi Beth Nichols
Jonathan Friedman, Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer
