This Shabbat morning was one of sadness and shock as we all heard about the shooting at the the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. The Jewish community has been victimized by senseless acts of violence and terror throughout our history. Today, we stand united with the Jewish community and all law-abiding citizens in America denouncing this horrific act. Our thoughts are focused on the victims and we send our most profound condolences to the families of those whose lives were lost. We must honor and respect freedom of religion and the ability to worship in peace, upon which our country is founded.
We have already been in close contact with the Manalapan Police Department and have full faith and confidence that our law enforcement at the local, state and federal levels will do all they can to protect us. We have also reached out to the Deputy Mayor of Manalapan so that we may work in partnership locally to maintain a safe community. The leadership and clergy of Temple Shaari Emeth will review current security protocols because ensuring your security is of the utmost and critical importance.
At this time, we have not been made aware of any threats to our local Jewish community. However, in the aftermath of this morning’s attack in Pittsburgh, we ask that everyone remain vigilant and alert staff and/or authorities about any suspicious activity you witness. Simply put, if you see something, say something. Working together we will do what is necessary to make sure that we can pray, learn, and meet in the safety of our synagogue.
It is imperative now, more than ever, that while we work to secure our Synagogue, we continue to build bridges of understanding and tolerance. There is no place for hate in this world. After having come literally face-to-face with Nazis and Anti-Semitism, Rabbi Joachim Prinz taught, “The most urgent, the most disgraceful, the most shameful and the most tragic problem is silence.” We will not be silent in the face of hate.
We will be in touch shortly with opportunities to pray and to remember the victims of this terrible act of hate. We are here if we can offer support in any way.
May God who makes peace in the heavens, make peace here for us, for all of Israel and for all of humanity.
L’shalom,
Rabbi Melinda Panken
Cantor Wally Schachet-Briskin
Joan Fischer, President
Stuart Brown, Executive Director
