We are horrified by the targeted of Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan and hold its community in our hearts. We pray for the healing of the injured security officer, and for strength, calm, and care for the children, families, clergy, educators, and staff who lived through this terror. Jewish tradition teaches pikuach nefesh, the sacred duty to protect life, and tzedek tzedek tirdof—‘justice, justice shall you pursue.’ We therefore call for a full pursuit of justice, while also offering compassion, pastoral care, and steadfast support to all those affected. No Jewish community should have to fear gathering to pray, learn, or raise children in safety. Current reporting indicates that the horror took place at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, that one security officer was injured, and that children at the synagogue’s early childhood center were brought to safety as authorities began investigating the incident.
FJMC International members and clubs can turn concern into care by reaching out to Temple Israel in West Bloomfield with messages of solidarity and by asking how we can support the community’s healing in the days ahead. We should also encourage meaningful contributions toward trauma care, recovery, and security needs, so that those affected know they are not standing alone. And in every one of our own communities, we should take time to thank the security guards who protect our synagogues, schools, and gathering spaces—privately and publicly—with genuine gratitude for the vigilance and courage they provide. In doing so, we live out chesed, honor those who safeguard Jewish life, and remind one another that our response to fear must always be presence, care, and communal responsibility.”
Am Yisrael Chai
FJMC International
Friendship. Judaism. Mentorship. Community. |
