As we prepare to enter Shabbat, many of us find ourselves continuing the heartfelt prayers we have been saying for the safety of friends and loved ones in Israel. A week ago, our love of Israel led us to protest the weakening of Israel’s judiciary. Today, we stand together for its safety, proclaiming that we will not be silent when Israel is suffering unspeakable pain.

Our hearts break for each victim of the brutality and violence in Israel as the number of those killed and injured continues to rise. We pray for the safety of those serving in the IDF, those who remain in the path of rocket fire, and for the safe return of those being held hostage by Hamas in Gaza. At the same time, we are pained by the loss of life and the suffering of innocent civilians in Gaza and we pray that humanitarian assistance can find its way to them soon.

May we all find comfort, compassion, and strength in the days and weeks ahead.