Sea Shul stands in solidarity with the Jewish Community of Jackson, Mississippi

Dear Sea Shul Community,

I am writing with a heavy heart in response to the news of an arson attack at Congregation Beth Israel in Jackson, Mississippi. We do not yet know all the details, and investigations are ongoing, but the act itself is deeply unsettling. It is another reminder that antisemitism is not theoretical or distant. It shows up in real places, touching real communities, and leaving fear in its wake. I want us first and foremost to pause, to witness, and to hold the weight of this moment together.

This news lands especially close for me. Last year, I was leading a Jewish community in Meridian, Mississippi, about an hour from Jackson. That synagogue also carried the name Beth Israel. Small Southern Jewish communities share a great deal, particularly in Mississippi, through history, relationships, and family ties, and some members of those communities even vacation here. I am also mindful that the Meridian synagogue was bombed decades ago, a trauma that still lives in communal memory. For me, this is not an abstract headline. It is personal, and I know many of you may be feeling that closeness as well.

At the same time, I want to offer reassurance. Sea Shul exists in a different context, and we take safety seriously. We remain in communication with local law enforcement and are attentive to security practices, even as we refuse to let fear define who we are or how we gather. Jewish history teaches us both vigilance and courage. We do not look away from danger, and we also do not allow hatred to steal our sense of belonging, joy, or community.

Our tradition teaches kol Yisrael areivim zeh bazeh, all of Israel is responsible for one another. May the One who makes peace on high bring strength and healing to those affected, courage to those who protect and rebuild, and a sense of safety and solidarity to all who feel exposed or afraid. As more information becomes available, including appropriate ways to offer material support or donations, we will share that with you. For now, let us stay connected, grounded, and committed to one another.

With care and resolve,

Rabbi Joshua Lesser

Sea Shul

We Grieve, We Hold One Another, We Keep the Light

We Grieve, We Hold One Another, We Keep the Light

Dear Sea Shul Haverim,

We are writing with heavy hearts after the devastating news out of Sydney, Australia. A Hanukkah gathering at Bondi Beach was attacked in what authorities are describing as a targeted antisemitic act of violence, with lives lost and many injured.

We grieve for those who were murdered, we pray for healing for the wounded, and we hold the mourners and the Australian Jewish community with deep tenderness.

We are also shaken and angry, because Jews should be able to gather in public joy without fear. Antisemitism is never only a Jewish problem. It is a threat to the moral fabric of any society that allows it to spread.

Here at Sea Shul, we are responding with care and responsibility. We have been in contact with local and regional authorities and last Sunday we hired extra security for our Chanukah event at Seaside. We are reviewing our general security awareness and plan in light of this attack. If you see anything concerning around Jewish spaces or events, please trust your instincts and say something.

And just as important: please do not carry this alone. Check in on one another. Reach out for support. If you are feeling anxious, heavy, or exhausted, you are not the only one. I am here, and our community is here.

Hanukkah reminds us that even a small light matters. In the days ahead, may we be that light for one another, through presence, kindness, and the simple courage of continuing to show up.

May the Holy One bring comfort to the bereaved, healing to the wounded, and strength and safety to our people everywhere.

With love,

Rabbi Joshua Lesser

Louse Short -- Sea Shul President