United Jewish Federation of Utah Stands in Solidarity with Israel
Once again, on a holy day of the Jewish calendar, the people of Israel have come under attack. Once again, the brave military forces of the State of Israel are responding and will defend our beloved Jewish state. And once again the United Jewish Federation of Utah stands in total and complete solidarity with our Israeli brethren. We pray for their safety and will do everything we can to ensure the complete and total success of their efforts. And once again the Jewish Federation of Utah, along Jewish Federations across North America, will act immediately and comprehensively to support our brothers and sister as they defend Israel.
Many in our community have been in direct contact with friends and family hiding in their homes as terrorist are being rooted out from their towns and villages. Many in our community have family and friends being called up from reserve duty to defend Israel on its southern border and prevent from any escalation in the north of the country. We send our prayers and support to all those affected and to the families whose lives have been changed forever.
The prayer for the State of Israel we recite in synagogue every week - including this morning - says ונתת שלום בארץ ושמחת עולם ליושביה - “Grant peace in the land and happiness to all its residents.”
On this day, which is the holiday of Simchat Torah in Israel - we literally sing and dance with simcha - with happiness. Today is not a day of simcha in Israel, but it is a day of solidarity, determination and utmost seriousness.
Israel will prevail and the Jewish people will stand together as we always do.
Am Yisrael Chai.
Alex Shapiro
Executive Director
In response to this crisis, United Jewish Federation of Utah has created the "Utah Stands with Israel Fund". Through the Jewish Federation of North America's network of partners, 100% of your donation will go to support the victims of the attack and their families.
Donate to the Utah Stands with Israel Fund. >>>