A Message from Rabbi Bellows

March 15, 2026/26 Adar 5786

Dear Friends,

This past week, many members of our Congregation Beth Am Sisterhood traveled to Indianapolis for the Heartland convention of Women of Reform Judaism. More than 100 women from around our region came together to celebrate learning, leadership, and the installation of new leadership for the Heartland region.

Among those present were members of Temple Israel. I was grateful to connect with several of the Temple Israel women. There was shock and horror at what had occurred, deep gratitude that the situation was not worse, and a lingering sense of vulnerability that so many of us have felt in Jewish spaces recently.

And yet, something powerful happened in the midst of it all.

Women leaned toward one another. Long-time friends held hands a little tighter. Conversations deepened as people checked in, shared stories, and helped ensure no one felt alone.

This is one of the strengths of the Jewish community: when the world feels uncertain, we draw closer. In moments of fear or disbelief, community can become a kind of shelter — a place where presence itself is a form of comfort.

After the convention, I returned home carrying that reminder. Even in difficult, tragic moments, there is deep resilience in gathering, in supporting one another, and in continuing the sacred work of Jewish leadership together.

Sometimes the most powerful response to shock is simply this: we stay connected. We show up for one another. And in doing so, we are all made stronger. 

Hazak Hazak, May we be strengthened 

Rabbi Bellows