Congregation Beth Israel Bellingham WA

I don’t know if members of the Muslim community here in Bellingham, or beyond, will happen to read this. But after today’s horrific shooting at an Islamic center near San Diego, I simply want to say: our Jewish community grieves alongside you.

As spiritual cousins, we know all too well what it feels like when houses of worship become targets of hatred instead of sanctuaries of peace. No community should have to gather for prayer while wondering if they are safe.

My heart aches not only for those directly affected, but also for the larger reality we are living through; a society overflowing with anger, easy access to weapons, isolation, radicalization, and hatred. It is heartbreaking that young people can be pulled toward violence in this way.

At moments like this, I hope we choose something different. More compassion. More relationship. More courage to see one another as human beings created in the image of God.

We are holding the Muslim community in our hearts tonight.

Rabbi Samuels