Dear Sinai Community,

As you likely know by now, the terrorist group, Hamas, orchestrated a major, ongoing attack against Israel today with thousands of rockets and a ground incursion of militants from Gaza into Israeli towns and kibbutzim. News reports confirm that over 200 Israelis are dead, a thousand injured so far, and Hamas has taken civilians and soldiers hostage. Rocket strikes from Gaza and gun battles between Israeli forces and Palestinian terrorists continue this afternoon in several locations across Israel.

We condemn Hamas and its allies. This attack is outrageous and unequivocally wrong. While Hamas has attacked the State of Israel and its residents, it must be remembered that Hamas is an inherently antisemitic organization whose charter calls for the annihilation of Jews in general. We stand with all Israelis and with Jewish communities around the world who are threatened by Hamas’ call today for a widespread uprising against anyone connected to the Jewish state. May the people of Israel vanquish their attackers, be safe in their homes and on their streets, and soon know a lasting peace in the historical homeland of the Jewish people. We need to be as strong in supporting Israel and condemning terrorists as we have been in criticizing the current Israeli government and its anti-democratic agenda.

We will hold a vigil at Temple Sinai, 1:30-2pm tomorrow, and invite you to join us in person to show our support, offer prayers, and gain strength from each other. We will continue to plan and offer programs and gatherings in the coming days and weeks to show our support for Israel and its people.

We also encourage you to support the people of Israel in this desperate hour through donations to these organizations or others you know to be reliable partners:

ARZA – The Association of Reform Zionists of America (Reform Movement)

The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington Israel Crisis Relief Fund

Adonai oz l’amo yi-tein, Adonai y’varech et amo b’shalom

May the Eternal One give strength to God’s people, May the Eternal One bless God’s people with peace.

On behalf of our clergy and our temple leadership,

Rabbi Jonathan Roos

Senior Rabbi, Temple Sinai