March 7, 2022
To Our Dear Temple Israel Family:
As we watch the tragic events unfold, our minds and hearts are turned toward the people of Ukraine. Since Russia launched its attack, there have been numerous casualties and over one million people have fled into neighboring countries. We have seen the great resolve of the Ukrainian people who are fighting for their lives and to save their country. While we may feel powerless as we watch this crisis evolve, there are things we can and should do. We can speak out clearly against this unjust, savage attack on a sovereign nation. We can contribute to organizations that are helping on the ground. One such organization is the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), which has spearheaded global relief efforts for over a century and is currently helping Ukrainians in need.
You can donate to the JDC here.
We can also raise up our voices in prayer, invoking God’s help and strengthening our own resolve. As Jews, we know well what it is like to be attacked and displaced and we pray for a swift resolution to this conflict. The following verses from Psalms express a disdain for violence and an aspiration for peace:
“In my distress I called to the LORD and God answered me. O LORD, save me from treacherous lips, from a deceitful tongue! A warrior’s sharp arrows, with hot coals of broom-wood. Too long have I dwelt with those who hate peace. I am all peace; but when I speak, they are for war.”
And of course, we can continue to speak and sing the words that are part of our daily liturgy: Oseh Shalom Bim’romav:
“May the One who makes peace in heaven bring peace to us, to all Israel, and to all humanity.”
With profound concern and hope for a speedy, peaceful resolution,
The Clergy and Leadership of Temple Israel of Great Neck
