The War Comes Home (Part 2)
Knowing that the attack on the Temple Israel synagogue in West Bloomfield is where we live, some have asked how the Jewish community responded to it.
I would summarize the Jewish community’s response as shocked, angered, and relieved. Evidently the terrorist/assailant sat in the parking lot of Temple Israel for two hours prior to driving through the doors of the synagogue. Since October 7, 2023, the Jewish community has been cognizant of the need for security and safety of both property and people. Temple Israel has an armed guard around the clock on site. They responded when the attack occurred and immediately engaged the attacker. Later, it was discovered the attacker died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. That the attack occurred at all in an upscale suburban Detroit community like West Bloomfield is shocking. However, in today’s world, terror can strike anywhere and anytime.
Regarding the response of the authorities, first responders, and fire department there was great respect, appreciation, and admiration for their response. In fact a country club directly across the street from the synagogue gave the children access and support to a greatly relieved and grateful staff. The relief comes because none of the 140 children or staff were injured or harmed. The results of the attack could have been far worse. Buildings can be repaired and replaced, but not children.
It is normal following an attack to get angry. Here’s an excellent article by Jay Murray dealing with the attack and its consequences https://enjoyer.com/media-motive-behind-temple-israel-attack/. The anger stems from misplacing the blame for the Israel-Hamas War since October 7, 2023 from terrorists, terror organizations, and terror nations like Iran and Qatar and blaming Israel and the Jewish people. Following the attack, anti-Semitic attacks increased 1,000%, the world seemed to side with the attacker not the attacked! That creates anger.
Pray for sensitivity, compassion, and wisdom in dealing with our community following this horrible incident.
