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Dear Elyse,
This month, we have seen the war between Israel and Hamas move into its fifth month. Our hearts are heavy with the traumas we have each suffered, compounded by the traumas of all who have been killed, injured, displaced, kidnapped, and otherwise harmed by this war and the terrorist attacks that began it.
It is especially painful as both Jewish and Muslim communities around the world celebrated sacred festivals of Purim and Ramadan. Being able to celebrate in joy while there is still so much pain has been a challenge everyone has tried to handle differently. In Jerusalem, there was a controversy over whether or not a public parade and celebration was appropriate given the ongoing war, the reality of hostages still in captivities, and the pain that everyone is feeling in various different ways throughout the nation and the wider region. While the festivities were ultimately held without much incident, it is worth noting how hard it is to even gather in our normal ways in such a difficult time.
Even so, it was inspiring to see so many locally in St. Louis and in communities around the world sharing their joy and being open and honest about how they were able to participate in, and even enjoy, the sacred rituals of their tradition amid the ongoing war. Our holy days are meant to give us strength and renew our spirit in dark times, as well as remind us that just as there have been times of turmoil in our history, these have passed into the annals of memory and better days have come. We will continue to work and hope and pray for those days of peace and freedom and the return of all those held captive to come soon.
Kol tuv,
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