Clergy, Political Leaders & Community Gather at Temple Israel Westport To Stand With Israel
A standing room only crowd of more than 900 people gathered on Monday night to show solidarity with the people of the State of Israel after the savage brutality they endured over the weekend.
Photos: Screenshots via Temple Israel Live Feed. Story by J.C. Martin. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The somber event displayed the gravity of what has happened as members of the clergy from the Jewish community were joined in prayer with Senator Richard Blumenthal and Governor Ned Lamont, who had attended several such events that day. Leaders of both the U.S. and of Israel have both expressed that this day was the worst in the history of Israel with the greatest number of fatalities since at one time since the holocaust.
The event was hosted by the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County and Temple Israel, along with The Conservative Synagogue, B'nai Israel and Chabad of Westport as well as Jewish congregations from all over Fairfield County.
The first to speak was Carin Savel, CEO of Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County (above left) followed by opening remarks by Rabbi Michal S. Friedman of Temple Israel (center). Next, a young man named Ofek Moscovich, (right) the Federation’s Shaliach (emissary from Israel) spoke about Israeli Memorial Day and the fact that most Israelis eventually have someone that they loved who died in service to the country and who is honored on Israeli Memorial Day.
A Prayer for the State of Israel was led by Ofek Moscovich, Rabbi Elana Nemitoff-Bresler (Temple Israel) Rabbi Sarah Marion (Congregation B’nai Israel Bridgeport) Rabbi Ita Paskind (Temple Beth El Norwalk) Rabbi Jason Greenberg (Temple Shalom Norwalk). This was followed by Cantor Julia Cadrain, Cantor Becky Mann, and Cantor Jessica Silverberg who led moments of music. Cantor Mann played guitar. Cantor Silverberg is from TCS, and Cantor Mann and Cantor Cadrain are from Temple Israel.
Senator Blumenthal than spoke passionately about his commitment to supporting Israel in providing what they need to defend the nation. He, like many in the audience, had relatives in Israel, his were cousins who were on their way to their join their units in whatever deployments that will soon begin.
The Senator was followed by Governor Lamont who was eloquent as well in his condemnation of the atrocities and firm in his determination to help support our Israeli allies who have suffered so much. Those impassioned speeches were followed by more solemn music by Lu Yehi along with the Cantors. Next, remarks by Carin Savel expressing gratitude to the Senator, Governor and all the local elected officials, of which many were in attendance. Psalm 121 was performed. A prayer for the hostages was then given by Rabbi Josh Ranter and Rabbi Colin Brodie. All in attendance then joined for the Mourner's Kaddish, prayer which is given immediately following a death, the anniversary of a loved one's death, spoken collectively and serves as an affirmation of Jewish faith as well as a reminder that no mourner is alone in their grief.
Photos: Screenshots via Temple Israel Live Feed. Story by J.C. Martin. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
After a moment of silence there was a last musical performance by Cantors Becky Mann and Julia Cadrain. Closing remarks where presented by Rabbi Evan Schultz. Congregation B'nai Israel Bridgeport and Rabbi Zachary A. Plesent of Temple Israel.
The night came to an end with everyone in the sanctuary singing Hatikvah a 19th century poem which is the National Anthem of the State of Israel.
Security for the event was quite apparent, with a Westport PD patrol car's flashing lights visible through the sanctuary window behind the speakers. Temple Israel Executive Director Bryan Bierman organized logistics and engaged private security on site as well.
Countries all over the world proudly displayed the flag of The State Of Israel. At left, #10 Downing St., London, center, Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, nest, Paris City Hall.
How You Can Help - Statement From The Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County:
When collective action is needed, Jewish Federations are there. Now, more than ever, our friends and family in Israel need your support.
We have opened the Swords of Iron Fund to support Israel. Your donation will be combined with the gifts of your neighbors and friends and will help victims of terror and provide trauma support.
Am Yisrael Chai. Click below to donate To The Swords Of Iron
https://shalomct.salsalabs.org/SwordsofIronFundraisingForm/index.html