Posted on May 22, 2025 by Rabbi David Katz
Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky have been murdered. Let me share the following statement from Rabbi Rick Jacobs, President of the Union for Reform Judaism:
May 22, 2025
President Rabbi Rick Jacobs:
We mourn Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, the two Israeli embassy staff who were murdered outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. Attending an event at a Jewish institution should not risk a person’s life but today across the globe our Jewish community is increasingly vulnerable.
It is also reported that the assailant cried out, “Free Palestine.” Murdering Jews and Israelis is not an act of freedom fighting; it is an act of terror that should prompt condemnation by people of conscience across the political spectrum.
We appreciate the efforts of law enforcement to investigate and hold accountable whoever was behind this heinous attack. May the memories of Sarah and Yaron be for a blessing and may their loved ones find comfort among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
The terrorist attack of October 7 has created a world-wide wave of hatred and anti-Semitism. Violence has reached our shores. Last night’s murderous act should shock all civilized people; the Jewish community mourns.
We will not live in fear. Our Jewish lives will continue unimpeded. The temple has taken and will take all necessary steps to create a secure environment. Today the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ sent out an email listing suggested security recommendations. The message counseled Jewish institutions to stay vigilant with their normal daily security protocols, and it further stated: “At the present time, based on our intelligence apparatus, it does not indicate a need for additional security guards.… We have requested that local law enforcement increase patrols at our Jewish institutions.”
Though there will not be additional security guards at our services tomorrow night and Shabbat morning, we are reassured by the following message from Undersheriff Paul A. Kaminsky, Undersheriff of the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office:
“Sheriff Russo…has instructed our Sheriff Officers to increase patrols and ensure greater visual presence at all our places of worship, with special attention to locations critical to our Jewish community. We understand how critical this visibility is in offering reassurance and support.”
Certainly, we are appreciative of Sheriff Russo’s response to our needs and we must also express our appreciation for the Hillsborough Police who, under the guidance of Chief McMahon, have also been very supportive.
During our service tomorrow evening a special prayer will be offered for Sarah and Yaron.
Let us all pray for a time of peace, a time when hatred, bigotry and violence will have ceased.
L’shalom,
Rabbi David Katz
