Dear Editor,
The Spokane Jewish community, including the congregations of Temple Beth Shalom and Congregation Emanu-El, would like to express its thanks for the incredible outpouring of support and sympathy from the Spokane community in response to the shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. Flowers and cards appeared at our doors the morning after the shooting and over 1,000 people poured into our synagogue for a community vigil on Tuesday, Oct. 30. Your incredible presence spoke out loudly against anti-Semitism, as we were surrounded by neighbors, friends and allies, including Christian, Muslim, Buddhist and other faith and civic leaders. The sense of love and solidarity was palpable, powerful and reassuring. In addition to the community vigil on Tuesday, Oct. 30, there was also wonderful attendance from the community on Friday, Nov. 3 at Shabbat services in response to the national request for all to “Show Up For Shabbat.” You were asked and you did. Love is indeed greater than hate.
From the bottom of our hearts: Thank you, Spokane.
Rabbi Tamar Malino
Mary May, Temple Beth Shalom Board President
Diana Koorkanian-Sauders, Congregation Emanu-El Board President
