Posted on January 15, 2022 by Rabbi Arnie Gluck and Cantor Risa Wallach
Dear Friends,
We join with our sisters and brothers of Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas in expressing our relief and gratitude for the safe release of Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker and the two members of their congregation who were held hostage in a terrible act of terror and antisemitism.
We are grateful for the outpouring of support and solidarity from good people of all faiths, from national and civic leaders, and for the valiant efforts of law enforcement. We pray for love and compassion to overcome all forms of hatred that we may all live in peace as God intends for us.
We offer this prayer, by Suzanne Sabrasnky, in the hope that it might bring some grounding and spiritual resilience:
Creator of all, Giver of Wisdom,
Help us to embrace Your ways.
When sometimes we can’t understand Your why,
Remind us that sometimes only You know reasons.
When there are things beyond our understanding,
Remind us that we don’t always need to understand.
G-d of all, Giver of Life,
Your ways are ways of righteousness.
Who are we to doubt You?
Are we so vain as to question Your plan?
Yours is divine inspiration and guidance,
Our paths are created by You.
You, bring the new day’s sun,
Your golden light, shines upon us.
Even in our pain and deepest sorrow,
Your still, small, voice is present.
You give the gift of unconditional love,
Your teachings are a signpost, leading us home.
Merciful and loving in Your ways,
Show us compassion when we hurt.
Teach us to see new beginnings,
When we see only an end.
Graciously shelter us under Your wings,
Granting us peace and refuah shleimah.
May peace and calm return to our hearts, our homes, and our sanctuaries, and may the day come soon when the word of the prophet will be fulfilled, that “all will sit beneath their vine and fig trees, and none shall make them afraid.”
With profound blessings for wholeness and peace.
L’shalom,
Cantor Risa Wallach and Rabbi Arnie Gluck
