Temple Shalom Blog

Dear Temple Shalom Community,

Jewish tradition teaches that we must treat the stranger with great care and concern. We find this passage in the book of Leviticus, “When a stranger resides with you in your land, you shall do them no wrong. The stranger who resides with you shall be to you as one of your citizens; you shall love them as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.” (Leviticus 19:33-34)

We face a moment of great uncertainty and debate in our country about immigration policy, undocumented immigration and how and when we can and should open our doors to those seeking asylum. It is at moments such as this that many of us feel called to action. Our own Jewish history as “strangers” reminds us that we cannot sit idly by.

Here are a few ways you may choose to make a difference in the lives of today’s “strangers” and tomorrow’s “neighbors”:'

1. We invite you to donate to CJP’s Fund for Detained Children, which is committed to supporting two organizations currently advocating for separated and unaccompanied children in federal detention centers.
2. Join your Newton neighbors Friday, July 12^that 4.p.m. at the Newton Lights for Liberty Vigil at City Hall.
3. Join us for Kabbalat Shabbat services on Friday at 6:30 p.m. where we will worship together, welcome Cantor Leah Shafritz, and share a moment of silent reflection as a reminder of Judaism’s call to support and care for the stranger.
4. If you cannot join us for Shabbat services, consider standing with the greater Boston community on the State House Steps on Friday at 7.p.m. for the Boston Lights for Liberty Vigil.
5. Visit the Reform Movement’s Religious Action Centerwebsite to learn about additional ways to join the Jewish community and advocate for safe, comprehensive immigration reform.

May we pray and stand together for peace, love and compassion!

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Abrasley and Rabbi Berry