Last week, just before the last days of Yom Tov, I sent out a reminder of a program called "11 for 11." This was a call for us to invite 11 guests over the year in memory of the 11 kedoshim who were killed in Pittsburgh, perform 11 acts of chesed in their merit, and to remember them at Yizkor. Then the tragic news came right after Yom Tov of the savage attack at the Chabad of Poway that same day.
Let us add the name of Lori Gilbert Kaye, of blessed memory, who heroically protected her rabbi, and rename our program "12 for 12."
Let us also have the names of the three wounded worshippers in mind in our prayers. They are Rav Yisrael ben Chana Priva, Noya bat Eden, and Almog ben Ruti.
At 11:23am Shabbat morning, exactly one week to the moment from the attack we will break in shul for a moment of silence and we will sing Acheinu. There will also be a gathering tomorrow at Chabad of the West Side at 97th and Amsterdam Ave. between 12 noon and 2pm.
Please also consider writing a letter of support to the Goldstein and Kaye families. These letters can be sent c/o Chabad of Poway, 16934 Chabad Way, Poway, CA 92064.
The office arranged for a thorough Security Review this past week. President Ari Weitzner and the Officers of OZ will convene an executive meeting this week to review updating protocal and upgrading systems, and a discussion will continue at the General Membership BBQ Meeting at the end of May.
Our best response to this is to get closer to another Jew. Avoid Lashon Hara, Avoid conflict. The gunman wants us defeated, divided, and weakened. We will be stronger, united, and closer to one another.
Finally, Seudah Shlishit has been anonymously dedicated to Lori Gilbert Kaye, may her memory be a blessing.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Allen Schwartz
Congregation OhabZedek 118 West 95th Street New York, NY 10025
