Statement Marking One Year Since the Start of the Israel-Hamas War

Reflecting on this High Holiday season, marking a year since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, we carry the weight of profound loss and ongoing challenges. We remember all the innocent lives lost in Israel and Gaza, the IDF soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting and rescuing civilians, and the hostages still in captivity, their absence a stark reminder of the human toll of conflict. 

In the face of this pain and difficulty, gathering with our community becomes a source of strength and solidarity. It is in these moments that we find the resilience to support each other through these trying times. As Jewish men, we have the opportunity and responsibility to show up not only for ourselves but also for our brothers and our broader communities.

The Hineni prayer we sing this time of year offers a poignant reminder that we don’t have to be strong to be present. Simply saying, “Hineni—here I am,” can be a powerful act of solidarity and compassion. It is a declaration of presence, a commitment to being there for one another, even when we feel weak or uncertain. By showing up and saying, “I am here for you,” we reaffirm our interconnectedness and our shared responsibility to lift each other up.

Through our presence and actions, we affirm our commitment to healing, justice, and peace. By standing together, we embody the values of compassion and unity that define our faith and heritage. Below you will find suggestions for caring for yourselves and your community during this time. FJMC’s High Holiday Toolkit has even more great resources to help you get started.

May this High Holiday season inspire us to continue striving for a world where conflict gives way to peace and understanding, and where hope prevails even in the darkest of times. 

L’shanah Tovah

Alan Budman – International President

Rabbi Noam Raucher, MA.Ed – Executive Director

Ways Jewish Men Can Care for Themselves:

1. Engage in Prayer and Meditation: Spend time in personal reflection and prayer to find inner peace and strength. 
2. Seek Support: Talk with a rabbi, therapist, or trusted friend about your feelings and experiences.
3. Stay Physically Active: Exercise regularly to help manage stress and maintain physical health.
4. Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness or breathing exercises to stay grounded and centered.
5. Connect with Nature: Spend time outdoors to rejuvenate and find solace in the natural world.
6. Limit News Consumption: Stay informed, but also take breaks from the news to prevent feeling overwhelmed.

Ways to Show Up for Brothers and Communities:

1. Participate in Community Services: Attend synagogue services and community gatherings to offer and receive support.
2. Volunteer: Help out in community service projects or initiatives that provide aid and comfort to those affected by the conflict.
3. Offer a Listening Ear: Be available to listen to friends and family who need to talk about their experiences and feelings.
4. Organize Support Groups: Create or join support groups for those affected by the conflict to share experiences and coping strategies.
5. Provide Practical Help: Offer to help with tasks such as cooking, childcare, or errands for those who might have relatives in Israel directly involved in the conflict.

Promote Peace and Understanding: Engage in dialogues and activities that promote peace, understanding, and reconciliation within and outside the community.