Statement of Union for Reform Judaism President Rabbi Rick Jacobs in Response to the Deadly Shooting at Chabad of Poway

April 27, 2019 – Following the shooting at Chabad of Poway, Union for Reform Judaism President Rabbi Rick Jacobs issued the following statement:

At the beginning of Passover during Seder Jewish communities all over the world opened their doors hoping to find Elijah announcing a time of redemption with an end to hate and injustice. How tragic to close our festival of freedom with yet another brutal attack reminding us that redemption is not near at hand.

The news of today’s shooting at Chabad of Poway, targeting innocent people during a Passover celebration, breaks our hearts anew.

We remind ourselves of the outpouring of support from people of all faiths and those of no faith following the deadly attacks against Christians at prayer in Sri Lanka, against Muslims in New Zealand, and at Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life Synagogue. These helpful, hopeful responses teach that love is stronger than hate.

Judaism must always be welcoming of all as we continue to work ceaselessly to ensure the safety and protection of all people.

As the terrible facts of this deadly attack come to light we join all people of conscience in prayers for the victims and their loved ones, and vow to provide strength, solidarity and support for the entire community.

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The Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) builds community at every level—from the way we collaborate with congregations, organizations, and individuals to how we make connections across North America to advance contemporary and inclusive Jewish life. Providing vision and voice to transform the way people connect to Judaism, we help congregations stay relevant and innovative, motivate more young Jews to embrace Jewish living, agitate for a more progressive society, and foster meaningful connections to Israel.

Founded in 1873, URJ has grown into the largest and most powerful force in North American Jewish life, with nearly 900 member congregations and work that inspires, connects, and educates millions of people. Our legacy, reach, leadership, and vision mean that we can unite thousands of years of tradition with a modern, evolving Judaism to strengthen Jewish communities today and for future generations.

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