Dear Friends,
In Psalm 137, the psalmist echoes sentiments that our community continues to feel this week, “By the waters of Babylon, we lay down and wept as we remember Zion.”
In our case, remembering Zion represents the longing we feel for what we have lost. Our tears and pain reflect a deep mourning for the devastation of home, community and city brought on by the waters of destruction.
In our case, Zion also represents the broader Jewish community of Houston which has been a lifesaver to thousands of Houstonians responding to the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. We are grateful to the individuals and institutions which have given so much of their time and resources in this time of crisis.
HRCJ has been central to these efforts, and we represent an easy starting point for emergency information, funds and services. We have received donations and gift cards from all over the country to distribute to those in need. The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston has also given every rabbi in Houston a $5,000 dollar grant to help serve our communities quickly and efficiently.
Our biggest challenge is identifying projects for these resources. Please let us know if you are in need, and we can help identify a pathway to help.
L’Shalom-Steve