Written by: Rabba Kaya Stern-Kaufman
Dear Friends,
As we approach the High Holidays I am reminded of a powerful statement in one of our essential prayers. At the conclusion of the U’netaneh Tokef prayer, in which the liturgist asks the questions, “Who shall live and Who shall die? Who by fire and Who by water…?” we join the cantor in singing, “but teshuvah (repentance), tefilah (prayer) and tzedakah (charity) have the power to mitigate the severe decree.” This holiday season, our traditions call on us to repair our relationships (teshuvah), engage in meaningful prayer (tefilah) and give tzedakah.
In these last few days, we have witnessed two horrific natural catastrophes – the earthquake in Morocco and the floods in Libya. So much devastation, it is hard to take it all in. Now, more lives hang in the balance. Gifts of tzedakah are desperately needed at this time. As our prayer states, though we cannot reverse this crisis, we can all contribute to mitigating the severity of its effects.
I would like to suggest two trusted avenues for donations.
IsraAID is an international non-governmental humanitarian aid organization based in Israel. Starting this past Sunday, they have begun delivering urgently needed relief supplies in Morocco while assessing further needs in water, sanitation, hygiene, mental health and psychosocial support. IsraAID is in close contact with the Jewish community in Marrakech and are exploring opportunities to partner in relief efforts.
Jewish Federations of North America is supplying food, urgent medical resources, and critical supplies to provide life-saving assistance to thousands of survivors in the critical weeks ahead.
At this time, we recognize how fortunate we are to be the hands that can give.
Steve and I look forward to seeing and greeting you at any one of the many services and holiday gatherings planned for this coming month. We wish you a sweet and healthy new year.
L’Shanah Tovah Tikateivu v’Tichateimu,
Rabba Kaya
