Attack in Michigan

Dear Congregational Family,

We are shaken by the news of the attack at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan. The Temple Israel community has many close ties to our own and this act of violence hit remarkably close to home.

We are grateful for the swift action of the Temple Israel security team, local law enforcement, and first responders who moved quickly to secure the area and protect lives.

While details are still emerging, and specific conclusions about the nature of this incident are yet to be confirmed, we are acutely aware of the hatred we Jews have been forced to confront in recent years. Attacks on synagogues and Jewish communities have become too frequent and immediately cause fear and panic in the hearts of Jews all over the world. We strongly urge authorities to investigate this incident and to fully hold those responsible to the highest level of the law.

We stand in steadfast solidarity with Temple Israel and the local West Bloomfield community. Violence and destruction of any house of worship is unacceptable. Jewish communities—and all people of faith– must be able to gather for prayer, education, and communal life without fear. Indeed, we will stand foursquare through the fog of fear and continue to live full and proud Jewish lives.

In our own TBJ community we are in close communication with law enforcement and our partners at Federation. We continue to be vigilant about security in ways that are both visible and not visible to our community, always with an abundance of caution for the safety of our children and our families. We are thankful to our community members for complying with our safety procedures and bringing any concerns directly to our attention.

Praying for the Michigan Jewish community, and for peace in our world.