In response to the attack on a Reform congregation in Israel last night, WRJ CEO Rabbi Liz P.G. Hirsch shared the following statement:
"Yesterday evening, as Israel concluded its commemoration of honoring its fallen, Beit Samueli synagogue, which houses a Reform congregation in the city of Ra'anana, was attacked by far-right extremists.
"The event that the protestors bombarded was organized by two groups seeking to bring together Israelis and Palestinians who reject violence and advocate for peace, including a group of bereaved family members from both societies.
"Instead of peace, participants were attacked with rocks, fireworks, and racially charged slurs. These physical attacks and statements such as 'Too bad Hamas didn’t take you,' are not only reprehensible, they also belittle the reality of the 59 hostages still in captivity.
"I had the honor of joining Rabbi Chen Ben-Or Tsfoni at her congregation in Ra'anana earlier this year. My heart goes out to those injured in the attacks, including our close partners at the Israeli Religious Action Center as well.
"Now more than ever, we must spread tolerance and understanding, not division and hatred."
Reform Jewish Women Condemn Attack on Reform Congregation in Israel
