It has been four months since October 7th, four months since the worst attack on Jews since the Holocaust, four months since over 1200 people were murdered, four months since more than 200 others were kidnapped and made into hostages, four months since Israel began a war in Gaza that has been castigated by the world, four months since we here in the United States have felt alone as Jews—fighting for Israel’s right to defend herself while defending our belief in peace at the same time.
In the immediate days after the attacks and in the early days of the war, our attention was drawn to the news and to constant updates from Israel. But now, four months later, many have gone back to their normal lives – hearing about Israel in the background but no longer thinking about Israel in every waking moment.
This is what time tends to do – as we move farther away from that which shocks us, we become accustomed to it. It becomes our new normal.
But as the days go on, there are still 136 unaccounted hostages in Gaza. There is still daily anti-Israel and antisemitic vitriol on college campuses. There is still an ongoing war to root out terrorism and end Hamas’ reign.
Four months later, there is still a need for us to care and to support Israel and the Jewish people.
What TBS Continues to Do:
Temple Beth Sholom remains actively involved in efforts to support Israel and the Jewish community here in Rockland County.
On Wednesday night, we launched a new live-streaming program in which we will be regularly speaking with Israelis, middle east analysts and others to provide Temple Beth Sholom with the latest information regarding the war. Early next week, we hope to provide you a schedule of upcoming guests.
I am now planning to go to Israel in late March in order to volunteer and to learn about what is happening on the ground
Cantor Anna has helped to launch a Run for their Lives chapter here in Rockland to demonstrate our support for the hostages.
Please, stay engaged and informed. Participate with our community in our ongoing support for the Jewish state.
Four months later, Israel needs us — Israel needs us as much as we were needed on October 8th.