October 7: Two Years Later

This message was sent to the congregation from the CRS Clergy on October 6, 2025.

Dear Rodeph Sholom Family,

We hold two years of grief. Two years since lives, families, and communities were shattered. Two years since hostages were abducted, and far too many still remain captive. Two years since the world changed in ways that continue to reverberate across Israel, Gaza, the Middle East, and our own lives here. Antisemitism spreads, fracture deepens, and the horrors of war continue as many feel the weight of these two years in the most personal of ways.

Tonight, our Sukkot festival is once again woven together with this somber anniversary. In sacred obligation, we continue to lift our constant prayers: for the safety and release of the hostages; for the end of this war in a way that makes possible a new chapter of safety, security, and dignity for all; and for the strength to hold grief, anger, and hope all at once.

At Rodeph Sholom, we will mark this second anniversary in community: through prayer, remembrance, and witness. Together, we will honor the lives lost, stand with the families of the hostages, and affirm that memory is our call to conscience, courage, and compassion.

May our shared grief strengthen our peoplehood, and may our prayers bend the world closer toward redemption. 

Your CRS Clergy Team