From the Bima Blog

It is hard to find the right words to share today about Wednesday night’s violent murder of Sarah Milgrom and Yaron Lischinsky, staff at the Israeli Embassy, while they were outside of the Capital Jewish Museum in D.C. They were attending a Jewish event, one focused on Israeli and Palestinian cooperation to help bring humanitarian aid to Gaza. It should not have cost them their lives. 

From the reports coming out of Washington, it appears that the assailant shouted a slogan “Free Palestine” as he committed this heinous act. But this was not an act of resistance in support of the people of Gaza. This was an anti-Semitic act of terrorism and should be condemned at all levels. We are grateful to know that local law enforcement is investigating and the security at the event was able to prevent further loss. 

The world we live in is not simple, and the vulnerability we feel as humans and as a Jewish community is real. Please know that Temple Shalom’s work to ensure our community is secure is solid and ongoing. We take our security plan seriously and will continue to monitor and adjust to changing safety concerns to the best of our ability. 

We send comfort and strength to the families of Sarah and Yaron as they mourn this tragic loss. May the One Who Makes Peace grant peace to all of us and strengthen our world for the better. 

Please know that a member of the clergy team is always available if you need to talk. Reach out as needed.