Shabbat of Broken Spirits

Joyce Fienburg, 75-years-old
Richard Gottfried, 65-years-old
Rose Mallinger, 97-years-old
Jerry Rabinowitz, 66-years-old
Cecil Rosenthal, 59-years-old
David Rosenthal, 54-years-old
Bernice Simon, 84-years-old
Sylvan Simon, 86-years-old
Daniel Stein, 71-years-old
Melvin Wax, 88-years-old
Irving Younger, 69-years-old
This was not supposed to happen, not here.
Here, we were supposed to find peace, comfort and holiness.
The Shabbat brings us a time of rest, reflection and spirituality.
The Shabbat began as so many others…members coming together to pray for shalom.
History has taught us the need for community, love and support.
History has given us the opportunity to learn together as a community.
History has brought us to where we are today.
The present teaches us we have a lot more diligent work to do.
Beloved God – be with us as we (once again) attempt to move forward from this place.
Give us the strength to mend our broken hearts and our broken spirits.
Help us to remember…not to forget…not to hold grudges…but to remember.
We must not only remember the agony; we must also remember the times of joy and comfort.
Baruch Atah Adonai, HaMevareich et Amo Yisrael BaShalom.
Blessed are you God, who blesses Your people Israel with peace.