In the wake of the shocking terror and murder visited upon Pittsburg’s Tree of Life Congregation, there is an initiative underway of solidarity, community and support for our Jewish friends, neighbors and cousin congregants. It is called #ShowUpForShabbat
On Friday, the first Shabbat since the horrors visited upon Tree of Life Congregation, we are invited to Show Up For Shabbat, to attend the Shabbat Service at 6pm at Temple Israel, 477 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02215. Temple Israel is planning a special Shabbat of Comfort, Community, and Courage. We need to be there with and for our Jewish neighbors. Show them love. Show them solidarity. Stand with them. Prove that we are undivided in our sacred determination to eradicate all prejudice, including anti-Semitism, from the face of the earth.
Many of you have worshipped at Temple Israel before. If you have not, well, now’s the time. In the wake of the tragedies, in the presence of our rage, our dismay, and our grief, we are not without agency. We have power. Let our outrage fuel our determination, give witness to our hearts, and inspire us to Show Up for Shabbat.
You can easily find your own way to Temple Israel, but if you wish to join other Old Southers on this sacred pilgrimage, we will meet at the church on Friday, November 2nd at 5pm and take the Green Line together. Temple Israel will be crowded. You will likely have to pass through metal detectors. Do not bring large bags or backpacks. Children are welcome.
If you are coming, can I ask you to do two things?
RSVP to nst@oldsouth.org
Register here: https://ajc.gospringboard.com/secure/Show-Up-for-Shabbat
“The Only Thing Necessary for the Triumph of Evil is that Good People Do Nothing.” (attribution contested)
Showing up for Shabbat? This we can do.
-Rev. Nancy S. Taylor