Over the weekend, synagogues around the world gathered for Shabbat services amidst the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. The attack by Hamas militants has not only geopolitical implications, but it also resurfaces deep and visceral trauma for Jewish people, particularly in Pittsburgh, a city scarred by a deadly antisemitic attack in 2018. The attack by Hamas is seen as an attack on the Jewish community as a whole, not just on Israel.
Rabbi Daniel Fellman of Temple Sinai in Pittsburgh emphasized the need for Jews to come together and recognize that all people, regardless of religion, are connected. He highlighted the importance of unity and support for one another during this challenging time. Rabbi Seth Adelson of Congregation Beth Shalom in Pittsburgh also expressed the pain and trauma that the Jewish community is feeling. Despite the lack of support, the community is carrying on with their rituals and finding moments of celebration amidst the grief.
At synagogues in other parts of the United States, such as Newtown, Washington D.C., Sag Harbor, and Los Angeles, there were tears, prayers, and anger. The congregations expressed their solidarity with Israel through prayers, songs, and gestures like waving Israeli flags. The community in Los Angeles raised funds for an ambulance to be sent to Israel and collected supplies for the Israel Defense Forces.
In Berlin, there was heightened security at synagogues due to tensions caused by the Hamas attack and subsequent protests. The community remained resilient and expressed their trust in God despite the challenges they face. In Indonesia, the only synagogue in the country called for peace and an end to the fighting in the Israel-Hamas war. The small Jewish community in Tondano continues to worship peacefully, focusing on their religious services.
In Miami Beach, Juval Porat prepared hymns for a service while his parents sought shelter in their safe room in Israel. Despite the strong emotions and fears, he remained focused on bringing comfort and joy to his congregation through music.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
