Dear Friends,

This has been a challenging summer for the Jewish community: the kidnapping and killing of "our boys", the revenge murder of a young Palestinian, the missiles from Gaza, the Israeli defensive response, the missiles from Gaza, the need for diplomatic and political advocacy, the missiles from Gaza. 

Many members of our congregation are in Israel; others have children, siblings, grandchildren, cousins and friends that daily face the barrage of missiles from Gaza. Past Shinshinim (Young Emissaries) are serving in the army. Rav Adam and Debra are currently in Jerusalem with their son, Jacob, as is Josette and our entire family. 

While we pray and hope for a resolution to the current conflict that will bring an enduring period of quiet, we recognize that, at the moment, almost all Israel, particularly the residents of southern cities and villages, face the threat of missiles from Gaza. In a Canadian context, this would be equivalent to at least 25 million citizens having to seek shelter. Additionally, anti-Israel demonstrations in other countries have endangered Jews in Europe. Thankfully, the Canadian government has spoken clearly in support of the right of Israel to defend itself. 

At this time of anxiety, I urge you to attend the Rally for the People of Israel on Wednesday, July 16 at 7:30 pm, sponsored by UJA Federation and CIJA and hosted by Beth Tzedec. Please click here to learn more and register for the event.

~Rav Baruch Frydman-Kohl