South Shore synagogues reflect on the terror attack on Israel

Anger, fear, frustration and grief were a few of the emotions that spilled from people attending an evening of solidarity at Congregation Sons of Israel in Woodmere on Oct. 12, five days after the Hamas attack on Israel.

Rabbi Steven Graber of Temple Hillel organized the event, which also included Temple Beth El of Cedarhurst, Temple Israel of Lawrence, Valley Stream Jewish Center, Hewlett-East Rockaway Jewish Centre, Young Israel of North Woodmere, Sons of Israel.

“Like all of you, I have been caught in a storm of emotions,” Graber said addressing an audience of roughly 50 people, including local elected officials. “Hearing the inexcusable unforgivable heinous acts of terror which disrupted Simchat Torah, a day that is marked for ultimate joy. Tonight, we pray for the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces, the victims of the barbaric massacre and for the safe return of the hostages taken into Gaza.”

Graber compared the Oct. 7 attack to 9/11 and Pear Harbor. He noted that with over 1,000 Israelis killed it is equivalent to having of 35,000 Americans killed

Five Towners are not close geographically to family and friends in Israel, however many graphic images, especially on social media, bring the devastation closer to home.

“We’re now entering into a period of response,” Graber said regarding the images. “Israel is engaged in a response that’s necessary to such an atrocity.”

Assemblywoman Michelle Solages whose district includes North Woodmere, spoke in support of Israel and those impacted by the war.

“The Jewish community has always shown a deep commitment to social justice and have always been allies in the struggle against oppression,” she said. “It’s time we reciprocate that support and stand with Israel.”

Simon Kupchik, the son of Rabbi Claudio Kupchik of Temple Beth El, was celebrating his birthday Thursday and chose to attend the evening of solidarity instead of going out with his friends.

He said back home in Israel, he worries for his family and others, but nights like this are impactful.

“It’s very emotional for me right now,” he said. “I have family in Israel and I feel very connected with the Jewish community here and I believe coming together in solidarity here is very impactful and meaningful for Jews around the world. It’s very important to be together during a time of need.”

Upon hearing the news of Hamas’ attack, Nancy Kaye was left devastated, challenging to describe her feelings.

“It’s very, very hard and I feel awful,” she said. “I stay looking at the news and watching, hoping for something good because I never expected anything this severe to happen again since the Holocaust.” 

Kaye said that events like the evening of solidarity are a way for the community to come together to unite.

“They are important for everyone to try to heal and go through the experience together,” she said. “It is good for the community to know we are standing by Israel and are feeling their pain.”

Congregation Sons of Israel Rabbi Steven Sacks hopes those who attended act as an ambassador for Israel.

“My friends, I want you to leave here tonight as ambassadors,” he said. “Speak to your friends, educate them so they can speak up on behalf of Israel. When you speak up on behalf of Israel, you’re speaking up in the name of humanity.”