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In a remarkable demonstration of solidarity, Masoud Sedghi, owner of Aldo’s of Italy in Sandy Springs, has donated a multi-dish dinner for 150 people to Temple Sinai for use as a fundraiser for Israel. The buffet-style dinner will start at 6:30 pm this Sunday night (October 22). You can register by clicking here.

The idea for this fundraiser came from Masoud, an Iranian, who was sickened by the actions of Hamas on October 7. He and I were having a conversation following the solidarity rally at City Springs last week when he suggested the idea, telling me, “Any time you want this to happen, I just need 3 days’ notice. And I want all the proceeds to go to Israel.”

While this action and statement of support go above and beyond – his generosity is truly humbling – I’m struck by the many messages I and others have received, messages expressing heartbreak and support. These messages have come from interfaith colleagues, classmates, neighbors, nearby schools, and friends from all stages in my life, and they have a remarkable source of comfort. One person wrote,

“I have thought of you and your communities since we all heard of the horrific events taking place in Israel. I cannot begin to fathom the level of stress and fear you must be holding within yourself and those whom you serve. My prayer has been for you as you console your congregations, that you have the strength to find words when they can be hard to find.”

Another shared,

“If you or members of your congregation have close friends or relatives deeply affected by the situation, as I know that'd be an additional layer of distress, please know that you have my heartfelt sympathies and prayers. During moments of such anguish, I believe it's pivotal for communities to unite and support one another.”

One more:

“First and foremost, I just wanted to send a note of love and support, to you, the people of Temple Sinai, and all our Jewish brothers and sisters, as war unfolds in Israel. Please know we are thinking of you all and send our love and support.”

I wanted to share a sampling of those messages because I have come to learn in conversation with others that not everyone is receiving such outreach. In fact, some have shared with me that they are not hearing from anyone outside of the Jewish community and that the silence is particularly isolating. Perhaps this is an opportunity to speak with those whom we feel comfortable and, assuming the best in those relationships, engage in a dialogue where we can share what Israel means to us, express disappointment about not hearing from them, and inquire as to what may have prevented outreach.

While silence is not preferable over genuine concern, it is preferred over what is happening in many communities, especially on college campuses. Several of the college students with whom I have spoken this week shared that they have felt similarly isolated, hearing supportive and compassionate comments from only those in the Jewish community while they hear the sounds of anti-Israel protests outside of their academic buildings and dormitories. As we navigate this period of shloshim, the 30 days that mark the second phase of mourning in the Jewish community, likely the voices of challenge and critique will amplify, and likely statements of solidarity will slow or evaporate altogether. Our collective hope is that our students connect with Hillel or with a nearby Jewish community for support and for affirmation of peoplehood and pride in their Jewish identity.

I find great comfort in the words of my friend and Covenant Presbyterian Church member Rena Marroquin and I hope that you will as well. It is her words in a message to me that I’ll use to close this message:

"Take care, stay safe, and know that you’re loved."

 Shabbat Shalom,

Brad