We are heartbroken at the news of the mass shooting at the Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on December 14. The death toll has now reached 15, with dozens of others injured. This was a targeted antisemitic attack, motivated by extremist ideology and intentionally committed during Hanukkah. The victims include Chabad Rabbi Eli Schlanger and Ukrainian Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman. May the memories of all the victims be for a blessing.

Even as we are reeling at the news of this senseless attack, we are grateful for the many Australian citizens who sprang into action, most notably Ahmed al-Ahmed, a 43-year-old Muslim and father of two, who tackled one of the shooters from behind and wrestled away his gun. He is currently recovering in the hospital from injuries sustained during his heroic act. We honor his selflessness on behalf of our Jewish community and wish him, and all who were injured in these horrific attacks, a r’fuah shlema, a complete recovery. 

Through these and other recent attacks, Temple Shalom continues to maintain a strong security presence. We are here to offer support and resources for members who need it. Rabbi Rick Jacobs, the president of the Union for Reform Judaism, wrote, “the spirit of the defiant Maccabees is part of the Hanukkah story. Our Jewish community will not go into hiding. We are proud Jews and will remain so even as we make the security of our Jewish community a primary obligation.” In this season, we remember the spirit of the Maccabees, as we stand proudly as a Jewish community. We will continue to respond to this as we do all violence against the Jewish people: standing together to shine our light more brightly than before.

Chag Chanukah Sameach