I need to ask you for a favor.
As you know, Israel has been rocked by numerous terrorist attacks. I need my community to come together tonight to stand with Israel. I need Ramat Shalomniks of all ages to join us in the sanctuary as Kabbalat Shabbat begins at 7:30PM and together we read prayers and sing songs that link us to the Jewish State. I need the opportunity to be surrounded by others who understand and appreciate the importance of Israel and value the security and wellbeing of the Jewish State. Studies show us that at least 76% of us are emotionally attached to Israel (http://goo.gl/pLI5Ts). If you are part of this 76%, I am asking you to do everything you can to join us tonight. Your presence will be a great comfort to me and to so many others who are hurting right now as we wrestle with the violence in Israel. It’s times like these that we truly need community. I know everyone is busy. I know that after a long week, it’s hard to get yourself out of the house and to the synagogue. But, I am asking you, please, go out of your way tonight and join us. It will make a difference.
At tonight’s service, beautiful Israeli music will be incorporated into the regular Kabbalat Shabbat prayers. Readings will pay tribute to the victims of terror and capture the challenges that Israelis face on a regular basis. And our regular Friday night study session will be dedicated to exploring how American Jews can and must become activists for a safe and secure Israel. I need you there. Your fellow congregants need you there. This is a time for us to come together to support each other and show Israel that we care. It is also a time for us to step forward and do our part to bring about a true and lasting peace.
When you come this evening, I invite you to bring a prayer for peace that we will send to the Kotel (The Western Wall). Encourage your children to share their own prayers and drawings that we will also send to Jerusalem. In addition, if you would like to support the families of those recently killed by terrorists, please bring a donation for One Family, a wonderful organization that does so much for those who are left behind after a terrorist attack (http://goo.gl/HVDiSE).
Finally, while I certainly hope that you will join us tonight, I want to encourage all of you to join us on Sunday, November 8 at 6:00PM here at Ramat Shalom as we partner with AIPAC for an Update on the Middle East featuring the diplomatic correspondent for the Jerusalem Post, Herb Keinon. You can register for this event for free by visiting https://goo.gl/1Qpz0o.
Thank you in advance for joining us tonight and making it possible for us all to feel the support of our community as we stand with Israel.
