In observant Jewish households, Saturday night brings more breaking news than other nights of the week. The reason is simple. Since we turn off phones, computers and other technology as the sun sets on Friday night and Shabbat begins, we are out of touch with the greater world for 25 hours.
This past Saturday night followed a too-frequent pattern of holding the closing ceremony for the Sabbath and then quickly hearing of tragedy. This time is was a mass shooting at Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, PA. Eleven people, ranging in age from 54 to 97 died, while others were injured.
Today, the correct response of all decent people is sorrow and prayer. Later this week, there will be time for more reflection.
I felt an immediate connection to the Pittsburgh congregation. To take the most solemn time of the week for jews and pierce it with violence is so bad.
Deep Sadness.
A song of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He causes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even when I walk in the valley of darkness, I will fear no evil for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff-they comfort me. You set a table before me in the presence of my adversaries; You anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows. May only goodness and kindness pursue me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for length of days.
We feel deep sorrow for the murders of those ladies and gentlemen, our Jewish friends and brethren. Please accept our most sincere condolences and we pray that our God will comfort you and that the whole Jewish community all over the world are protected by our Almighty God from this hatred. We love you and we are with you. Psalms 23 and 91. 😔