We are here for you.
Letter from Rabbi Michael:
In light of the heartbreaking events of the past several days, I wanted to reaffirm that as a community we are here for each other, and to encourage you to reach out whenever needed.
Shir Hadash remains open as a space to come together and connect (and disconnect digitally) if needed; and know that the clergy of Shir Hadash are available to speak with you as well.
The conversations I have had with younger members of our community have been heartbreaking as well as inspiring. If it is helpful or appropriate for your family, I also wanted to share two resources with you:
- an article by a parent and Jewish educator on how she has spoken about the current events with her children, as well as a more
- a general resource from the ADL (PDF) for families and educators about equipping children to understand acts of terrorism.
Over the next few weeks, there will be more extremely graphic images and videos posted on social media - many of which our older children may have access to. Having open discussions to help our youth process what they are seeing, will help them to feel grounded at this very difficult time.
As we pray and mourn, please know that Shir Hadash, as a community, is here for all of us.
-Rabbi Michael