Dear Charlotte Jewish Community,
Today, we send this email with heavy hearts to address a matter of profound concern that deeply affects our fellow Jewish community members and the State of Israel. We regret having to share this vital update under such solemn circumstances. As you are aware, it is our practice not to communicate on Shabbat or Jewish Holidays, including today, Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah. Nevertheless, due to the ongoing conflict in Israel, we are making a rare exception to reach out to you directly.
Today, during the holiday of Shemini Atzeret, fifty years after the Yom Kippur War, Hamas terrorists launched an unprecedented attack on Israel from Gaza, firing thousands of rockets, breaching the country’s borders, killing dozens of Israelis, and wounding hundreds more. We condemn these acts of terror, which stand in stark contrast to the values we hold dear as a people committed to justice, peace, and the sanctity of human life.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel is at war, emphasizing the importance of standing with Israel during these challenging times. Many countries have already expressed their support, and we must add our voices too. Israel has the right to defend itself and protect its citizens. In this critical moment, the Charlotte Jewish community stands in solidarity with the State of Israel and with Jewish communities worldwide.
Our hearts go out to our fellow community members who have family and friends directly affected by these events. We unite in prayer for the safety of all in Israel, pledging our unwavering support. Our hearts are filled with hope for a swift resolution to this crisis and a complete restoration of security in the State of Israel. During this challenging period, our deepest wish is that the people of Israel may draw strength and comfort.
What Can You Do? Gather in Solidarity. Donate. Learn.
Gather in Solidarity: In a spirit of unity and resolve, we invite the entire community to join a special vigil in the Sam Lerner Center for Cultural Art in Shalom Park on Monday, October 9 at 7:00pm. Clergy will be available before and after the service to lend a listening ear. Together, we stand united with Israel, praying for the safety of all involved, and with the hope for a swift resolution to this terror.
Donate: Jewish Federations across North America have launched an emergency fundraising effort. Donations to the Jewish Federations emergency fund can be made here.
Learn More: Federations will be hosting a webinar tomorrow, Sunday, October 8 at 12:00pm ET to update further on the situation and its impact. Please register here.
In Israel, there is a special mi shebeirach prayer that is recited for people called up for army service.
Bless the soldiers of Israel’s Defense Forces, and everyone who stands guard in order to protect our people. May the Holy One, Blessed be God, protect them and save them from all troubles and afflictions, from all sickness and injury and send blessing to all their endeavors. May the words of the Prophets come to fruition through them ‘and they shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore. And each one shall sit under the vine and under the fig tree and none shall be afraid,’ and let us say, Amen.
With unity and compassion,
Rabbi Asher Knight, Temple Beth El
Rabbi Michael Wolk, Temple Israel
Sue Worrel, Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte
