Yesterday’s assault on Temple Israel and specifically, its preschool, has left us all shaken to the core. This was a terrifying act of violence in a sacred place that should always be a sanctuary for Jewish learning, prayer, and connection. We are profoundly saddened, but deeply grateful that none of the students or Temple Israel teachers were physically harmed.
Their safety was a testament to the courage and swift action of our first responders and safety personnel. We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the security team at Temple Israel, whose preparedness and decisive actions undoubtedly saved lives and averted what might have been an immense tragedy. And we are thankful to the Shenendoah Country Club and our friends in the Chaldean community for providing a welcoming shelter in the aftermath.
A special word of gratitude is owed to the Temple Israel staff, who supported their community through unimaginable circumstances. Their steadfast dedication and compassion will no doubt continue to inspire and lift us all in the days and weeks to come.
This act of hate will not define us. Our community will remain a safe and welcoming place, thanks to our robust security program—JCSI—and strong partnerships with local and national law enforcement. Those efforts were evident yesterday, and we will continue to protect our institutions with the utmost vigilance. But most importantly, we will fight hatred and antisemitism by living proud Jewish lives.
We will continue to worship together in our sanctuaries, send our children to our schools and camps, and celebrate the rich traditions and heritage that have sustained us for generations. We will embrace the fullness of our Jewish identities with confidence and purpose. That alone is the most powerful response to hate in all its forms.
In moments like this, we’re reminded of how deeply connected we are. We understand what community means: a sacred commitment to show up for each other. We reach out, we check on one another, and we stand together. That sacred bond—our responsibility to each other—is our strength, and we thank you all for your part in it.
As we welcome Shabbat tonight, let us hold our loved ones especially close as we cherish our Jewish traditions and give thanks. Let us also keep our brothers and sisters in Israel in our hearts as we hope for a more peaceful future.
Shabbat Shalom.
Brian Hermelin, President
Jewish Federation of Detroit
Michael Berger, President
United Jewish Foundation