New York, NY; October 25, 2019 - Union for Reform Judaism President Rabbi Rick Jacobs issued the following statement in response to today’s bomb threat called in to Congregation B’nai Israel in Bridgeport, CT, a URJ member congregation.
“Shabbat is a time of peace and healing. This Shabbat, as we commemorate one year since the deadly attack on Tree of Life – Or L’Simcha Congregation in Pittsburgh, PA, we must yet again reckon with hate and intimidation against the Jewish community and our houses of worship.
The URJ has been in contact with Rabbi Evan Schultz and the congregation’s president, Shari Nerreau; their leadership has been inspiring. Thankfully, everyone at Congregation B’nai Israel is safe, and the congregation will be able to observe Shabbat tonight. The evacuation was done quickly, according to the congregation’s emergency procedures, and with thanks to the quick involvement of local and federal law enforcement.
However, it remains deeply troubling that Jewish communities around the world are still being targeted for hatred, bigotry, and violence. We must come together as one to confront the roots of antisemitism in order to bring these senseless acts to an end.
On this Shabbat and each one to come, we join with all people of good conscience who remain committed and steadfast in unity and solidarity.”
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