This week our hearts are torn as we each try to make sense of this spate of hateful acts, from the terrorism in Charlottesville to desecration of the New England Holocaust Memorial.
The Psalmist reminds us, “God draws near to the broken-hearted” (34:18). In a relational community such as ours, we internalize this teaching by drawing near to one another. Our clergy have received many questions and comments, by phone, email, and social media, all asking: “What can we do?”
In the coming days, Greater Boston will gather in a variety of ways. Based on our conversations with faith and civic leaders, including the mayor and the Boston commissioner of police, we believe that it is critical for anyone planning on engaging in a counter-protest to receive thorough training beforehand. These hate groups aim to incite violence—and public conflict may rally their base and further advance their heartless agenda.
As Martin Luther King Jr. preached, “Darkness does not put out darkness; only light can do that.” We will fully devote ourselves to our community’s mission of shining the light of righteousness wherever we go.
In this spirit, this Friday, August 18 at 5:00 p.m., we, along with our partners across the Greater Boston Interfaith Organization, will host an Interfaith Gathering of Unity, Love, and Strength. Whatever else you choose to do this weekend, we hope you will make this a high priority. We will hear inspiring words from faith leaders across Greater Boston as we stand together against all forms of hatred to affirm the power of love and righteousness.
Then, at 6:00 p.m., we will welcome Shabbat together by inviting our interfaith community to join us for “A Sabbath of Love and Light,” a worship experience open to all, devoted to the values of justice and compassion.
We strongly encourage you to use public transportation to get to Temple Israel. We are located two blocks from the Longwood Station along the Green Line’s Riverside (D) route. We are two blocks from several bus routes that stop near Beth Israel/Deaconess Hospital and less than a mile from Coolidge Corner. Reduced rate parking is available at the 375 Longwood parking garage. Please arrive early to allow for additional time for security. We request that all bags be left at home.
This is the time for us to be together with all who wish to counter messages of hatred by kindling the light of compassion and dignity for all. We invite you to extend this Shabbat invitation to your friends—across any faith community. Temple Israel is home to all whose hearts are open and yearning for a better, more loving world.
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