A Statement from FJMC: Attack on Beth Israel Congregation
We are devastated and outraged by the arson attack against Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi. This was not only an attack on a building—it was an act of terror meant to intimidate Jews, to desecrate sacred space, and to remind a vulnerable community that hatred still stalks our people.
Jewish tradition commands us otherwise. Lo tira’u—Do not be afraid. Stand firm and see the deliverance of God (Exodus 14:13). Our ancestors heard these words at the edge of the sea, pursued by violence and fear. They did not retreat. They did not disappear. They walked forward together. That is who we are still.
FJMC International stands in full solidarity with the members and leadership of Beth Israel Congregation and with the entire Jackson Jewish community. We grieve with you. We stand beside you. And we commit ourselves—practically, spiritually, and publicly—to your safety, healing, and rebuilding.
Let us be clear: this act of arson is part of a wider climate in which antisemitism is growing louder, bolder, and more dangerous. Silence is not an option. Minimization is not an option. And fear will not dictate Jewish life.
Our tradition teaches: Whoever saves a life, it is as if they have saved an entire world. (Mishnah Sanhedrin 4:5). Protecting Jewish life, Jewish dignity, and Jewish continuity is not only a communal obligation—it is a sacred one. To those who seek to frighten us into retreat, we respond with presence. To those who attempt to burn our sanctuaries, we respond by strengthening our communities. To those who traffic in hate, we respond
with resolve, solidarity, and moral courage.
We will not let terror win. We will not let hatred define the future of Jewish life in America. And we will not leave any Jewish community—especially one targeted for who they are—to stand alone. May the days ahead bring healing and strength to those
shaken, and renewed commitment from all of us to protect one another and to live proudly, visibly, and without fear as Jews.
Please visit the FJMC Combating Antisemitism website to learn more about how you and your Men’s Club can get more involved and be pro-active in combating antisemitism.
Donations can be made to Beth Israel Congregation.
Am Yisrael Chai.
With strength, humility, and hope,
Bruce Tomar
International President
Rabbi Noam Raucher, MA.ed
Executive Director
FJMC International
Friendship • Judaism • Mentorship • Community
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