OUR HEARTS ARE WITH ISRAEL
The worldwide Reform Movement is standing in solidarity with the people and State of Israel. We pray for an end to the war, healing for those injured, and the safe return of all those taken captive by Hamas.
As we follow the developing news in Israel, we urge you to keep up to date on what we are doing and ways you can help:
ACTIONS TO TAKE
Join the URJ and RAC in urging President Biden and Congress to continue standing with Israel, leading other nations to do the same.
Donate to the Jewish Federations of North America's (JFNA) Operation: Swords of Iron campaign. JFNA is working with the URJ and our partners to support victims of terror, rebuild damaged infrastructure, and address the unprecedented levels of trauma caused by these horrific attacks. You can give through your local federation or directly to JFNA.
On Friday, October 27, observe a Shabbat of Solidarity with Israel. Leave an empty seat, marked with the name and photo of a hostage, at your Shabbat table. Wear your blue ribbon. Share a photo of your tribute or the below graphic on social media with the hashtags #ShineYourLight #BlueRibbonsforIsrael #BringThemHome. Visit our partner, Blue Ribbons for Israel, to download additional social media graphics and banners that feature the names and faces of the hostages, as well as printable postcards to distribute in your community or congregation.
Pray for the State of Israel, the Israel Defense Forces, the civilians held captive, and for peace. The Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR) has compiled a free booklet of prayers.
HELPFUL INFORMATION
There have seen a number of deeply troubling posts on social media that are antisemitic, anti-Israel, and/or contain misinformation or disinformation. Learn how to respond to these posts online.
Toolkit for Clergy: Prayers, readings, recordings and resources you can consider incorporating into your congregation's services.
Take steps to ensure the safety of your community by following these tips from Secure Community Network (SCN), the official safety and security organization of the Jewish community in North America, and the URJ.
The URJ has compiled resources to help parents talk with their children about the current situation in Israel in an authentic, age-appropriate manner.
INTERVIEWS AND WEBINARS
Watch Rabbi Rick Jacobs's October 17 interview with Fox discussing the bombing of a hospital in Gaza, Biden's visit to Israel, the implications of an Israeli ground incursion, and the importance of President Biden's visit to Israel on October 18.
Watch Rabbi Rick Jacobs's October 14 MSNBC appearance, in which he condemns Hamas's attack on Israel, encourages continued U.S. support for Israel, and articulates the moral imperative to protect Jewish and Palestinian civilians by eliminating Hamas's terrorist infrastructure.
Watch the recording of our Movement-wide "Standing in Solidarity with Israel" webinar recorded on October 9, during which we received updates from our southern Israel communities and shared in a moment of communal mourning.
Journalist Amir Tibon's personal story - Diplomatic correspondent for the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, Amir Tibon shares his powerful personal story of survival and rescue.
Watch URJ President Rabbi Rick Jacobs's appearance on Fox, where he spoke on the brutal attacks' impact on Israel and America.
View the recording of Our Hearts are in the East, a webinar produced by Sing Unto God on October 9 featuring music, poetry, and prayer with Reform musicians, clergy, and friends.
VIDEO MESSAGES AND STATEMENTS
Read the statement from Reform leaders thanking President Biden for solidarity with Israel.
View the statement from Reform leaders responding to Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel.
Read and watch Rabbi Rick Jacobs' Shabbat Message of Compassion and Strength
This page will continue to be updated with more information and opportunities for you to support Israel as they become available.