Victims identified as Lori Gilbert Kaye, z”l; Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein; Almog Peretz, and young Noya Dahan; Alleged shooter John P. Earnest taken into custody
By Donald H. Harrison
POWAY, California – A white male shooter opened fire during Saturday morning Shabbat services on the last day of Passover, killing one woman at the Altman Family Chabad Community Center, and wounding three others, including Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein who was addressing the Chassidic congregation at the time.
Witnesses said that Rabbi Goldstein suffered wounds to both hands, that another man and a elementary school aged girl were among the victims taken respectively to Palomar Medical Center and Rady Children’s Hospital, and that following Shabbat services, the congregation had been planning to hold a celebratory Passover luncheon.
Witnesses said that Rabbi Goldstein had two fingers wounded, yet continued to deliver his sermon in the immediate aftermath of the attack. Meanwhile, an off-duty Border Patrol Agent providing private security for the service chased the suspect out of the synagogue and fired at his car, according to witnesses.
Sheriff Bill Gore, whose agency provides protection to the City of Poway, told a news conference that a combination of law enforcement agencies including the FBI were interviewing nearly 100 witnesses who were inside the synagogue when the shooting occurred. Some of the interviews were conducted at the rabbi’s residence, which is behind the synagogue. Officers were told that the shooter ran out of the synagogue after his gun appeared to misfire.
Identities of the victims besides Rabbi Goldstein were not immediately disclosed by law enforcement officials. However, Audrey Jacobs, a Jewish community activist, said the slain woman was her friend Lori Gilbert Kaye, who jumped in front of Rabbi Goldstein when the shooter opened fire. She was hit by several bullets apparently meant for him, Jacobs wrote. (An earlier report was erroneous that it was Rabbi Mendel Goldstein, son of Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, whom she had tried to shield.)
Kaye was a member of Hadassah, and also a regular contributor to the Jewish National Fund. Sol Lizerbram, national president of Jewish National Fund, said he and his wife Lauren will begin a forest in Israel to be named in honor of Lori Gilbert Kaye.
According to Jacobs, who posted on Facebook, “Lori leaves behind a devastated husband and 22-year-old daughter.” Another friend, Fred Nasseri, told KGTV, that Kaye was “one of those people you want to know as a friend.” He added in an interview: “We will not be broken; this is not going to break us.”
Jacobs also reported that when the shooter stormed into the synagogue, he yelled “F-ck the Jews” as he opened fire.
Dr. Michael Katz, trauma chief of Palomar Medical Center, said the woman who died was 60; that the rabbi is 57, and the other male victim 34. He said the rabbi will lose his right index finger, but his left index finger is expected to be saved. The other man and the little girl suffered shrapnel injuries, with the girl’s being in a leg and the face. Katz added that the rabbi underwent surgery and may need to remain hospitalized for a few days.
In her post, Jacobs wrote: “The murderer also shot an 8-year-old girl Noya Dahan. She asked for her picture to be shared and for everyone to know she is strong. Noya’s family moved to San Diego from the Israeli city of Sderot to get away from the terrorism and the constant attacks on their community.” Police had reported the girl’s age at 10, and there was no immediate clarification of the discrepancy. The Sha’ar Hanegev region around Sderot is the partnership region in Israel of the Jewish Federation of San Diego.
Jacobs’ account continued: “The other victim who was shot was Almog Peretz, age 32, Noya’s uncle who came from Sderot to visit his family for the Passover holiday. They are both now in stable condition.”
In the confusion immediately after the shooting, two children were reported missing, but they were subsequently found and reunited with their parents, witnesses said.
San Diego Police Chief David Nisleit, who joined Gore at a news conference, said that shortly after escaping the synagogue, the shooter telephoned 911 to turn himself in, and that a San Diego Police Officer made the arrest in front of Phil’s Barbecue near the intersection of Rancho Bernardo Road and Interstate 15. According to Nisleit, a semi-automatic AR15 rifle was on the front seat of the shooter’s car. The shooter was identified as a 19-year-old male who lives along Freeport Road in the Rancho Penasquitos neighborhood of the City of San Diego, which neighbors Poway. He later was identified as John P. Earnest of San Diego. He reportedly had issued an 8-page manifesto on social media in which he claimed to have set a small fire at the Islamic Center of Escondido last month. Earnest wrote in advance about Saturday’s shooting that he had been planning the attack for four weeks, and that he had no remorse except that he hadn’t killed even more people.
Reporters for KGTV later reported that Earnest had been a student at California State University at San Marcos, enrolled in a nursing program. That university issued a statement decrying the shooting and saying that it stood “in solidarity” with the Jewish community. It was also learned that Earnest had graduated in 2017 from Mt. Carmel High School, where his father formerly was a science teacher.
In an interview with MSNBC, a shaken Poway Mayor Steve Vaus called the shooting a “hate crime,” which would mean that if the shooter is found guilty, he could face increased penalties because hate crimes not only affect specific victims but are intended to intimidate an entire community.
Danny Almog, a congregant who had been inside the synagogue, told reporters that the gunman was “just focused to kill. I saw the murder and the hate in his eyes.”
U.S. President Donald Trump, in a news conference on the south lawn of the White House, echoed Vaus’s description of the shooting as a hate crime. He offered the nation’s sympathies to the victims, and congratulated law enforcement on their quick response. Subsequently, he tweeted: “Thoughts and prayers to all of those affected by the shooting at the Synagogue in Poway, California. God bless you all. Suspect apprehended. Law enforcement did outstanding job. Thank you!”
There were also comments from Democratic presidential candidates: Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, himself Jewish, called the shooting “horrific” and said bigotry and violence must be eradicated. Sen. Kamala Harris of California, whose husband is Jewish, commented “Anti-Semitism is real in this country and we must not be silent.” U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton of Massachusetts said, “We have a hate problem in America. We have a gun problem….”
Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Kevin K. McAleenan said, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic shooting in Poway, California. Targeted violence committed against any race, religion, creed or ethnic group cannot and will not be tolerated. DHS will take every appropriate action to assist with the investigation and ensure that those affected by this tragedy receive the closure and justice they deserve. We are thankful that one of our own, an off-duty Border Patrol agent, was able to assist in the response and likely prevented the deaths of more worshipers.”
California Gov. Gavin Newsom declared: “No one should ever fear going to their place of worship!”
Jonathan Greenblatt, executive director of the national Anti-Defamation League, told MSNBC reporters that the shooting came six months after the massacre at Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life Synagogue, in which 11 persons were murdered and seven others wounded by a white supremacist.
Greenblatt described the shooting as “tragic beyond words” and said that the world is “living in a moment of fear.” He noted that anti-Semitic incidents have increased in the country. Likewise in recent times there have been attacks against a mosque in New Zealand, Catholic churches in Sri Lanka, and African-American churches in Louisiana.
Mayor Vaus told a news conference that the shooting is uncharacteristic of Poway. In his city, he said, “we always walk with our arms around each other. … We will walk through this tragedy with arms around each other.”
Gore said that extra patrols by law enforcement would be sent to houses of worship on Sunday to guard against any copycat shootings. Several Jewish organizations, including the Jewish Community Center and Tifereth Israel Synagogue in San Diego, have previously scheduled observances on Sunday to mark Yom Hashoah, the Holocaust remembrance day.
The regional office of the Anti-Defamation League sent counselors to nearby Poway High School to meet with grieving community members.
Among the early responders to the shooting were the Sheriff’s Department, San Diego Police Department, San Diego Fire Department, Escondido Police Department, the California Highway Patrol, the Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms enforcement agency; the U.S. Border Patrol, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
As news of the shooting spread through Poway, a city of 50,000 residents, mourners and sympathizers placed bouquets of flowers in strategic locations. One sign, attached to a telephone pole, was a heart with an inscribed message inside saying, “Poway Stands With You.” Another declared “Never Again!”
Rancho Bernardo Community Presbyterian Church sponsored a service and candlelight vigil Saturday evening. Havdalah prayers were chanted at the end of Shabbat, and the assembly also sang the Civil Rights standard, “We Shall Overcome.” A Muslim who attended the service said if the person who had committed arson against the mosque last month only had been caught, Saturday’s shooting might never have occurred.
Comments from organizations and individuals around the world have been received by San Diego Jewish World and have been posted in order of receipt. In alphabetical order, those expressing concern to this publication, were:
Adopt A Family Foundation
American Jewish Committee
American Jewish Congress
Anti-Defamation League
Bend the Arc
Boulder, Colorado, Jewish Community Center
Butterfly Project
Chabad of East County
Chabad of La Costa
Chabad of S. Diego
Chabad of University City
Club Z
Cohen, Joel
Dignity Freedom Network
Free Chapel
Hadassah
Herut North America
Israel-American Council
Jewish Agency for Israel
Jewish Community Foundation of San Diego
Jewish Democratic Council of America
Jewish Federation of San Diego County
Jewish National Fund
Lawfare Project
MASA Israel Journey
Murray Galinson San Diego Israel Initiative
National Jewish Committee on Scouting
New Zealand Jewish Council, Inc.
Peters, Scott, U.S. Rep.
Republican Jewish Coalition
San Diego County Democratic Party
San Diego Pride
Shabbat San Diego
Shefer-Vanson, Dorothea
StandWithUs — National
StandWithUs — San Diego chapter
Temple Emanu-El, San Diego
Tifereth Israel Synagogue, San Diego
Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America
Universal Society of Hinduism
Zioness
*
Harrison is editor of San Diego Jewish World. He may be contacted via donald.harrison@sdjewishworld.com
From Temple Emanu-El, San Diego: It is with deep sadness we write again to address another tragic attack against the Jewish community. It is difficult anytime there is an attack against our people and doubly so when it is so close to home. By now most of you have heard the reports of the armed attack earlier today at Chabad of Poway. Our hearts are broken for the anguish and suffering caused by this inexcusable act of violence. Our security team has been working continuously with our ADL office as well as our local law enforcement to address the ongoing security needs and concerns of our community. We are thankful for our security committee and the SDPD officers who have been here at the synagogue all day.
Today has offered us a profound contrast on the state of the world. In one part of San Diego county, a terrorist went into a synagogue with evil intent and a will to do harm. In our corner of the county, Temple Emanu-El was filled with people celebrating the Bat Mitzvah of a young woman who offered an impassioned sermon on the importance of Torah learning as it pertains to creating a world of kindness and justice. While one person was trying to destroy goodness, another person was creating it so beautifully. This is our pathway forward. We cannot and will not allow any terrorists to instill fear in our hearts or to deter us from living our full Jewish lives. This is why we will continue on with our calendar as planned including Torah School tomorrow, the community Yom HaShoah program at the JCC, Community Jewish High, adult education, Shabbat services and our Temple’s annual Gala.
In the face of those who seek to intimidate and terrorize us, we will live with intentionality, Jewish pride and courage, and a commitment to partnering with all our neighbors of good will to build a stronger, tighter, ever more loving world. When we know what will be organized for the community’s mourning of this tragic event, we will reach out again so that we can continue to show up as a community of strength and love. We hope we will see you this coming week as, with our presence, we denounce terrorism and violence, and at the same time affirm our commitment to creating and building a vibrant Jewish community that is both inclusive and welcoming.
B’Shalom
Rabbi Devorah Marcus
Rabbi Benj Fried
Jeff Schindler, Co-President
Eric Rosenzweig, Co-President
Shiri Haines, Executive Director
Rabbi Marty Lawson
From Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt:
ADL CEO Jonathan A. Greenblatt released the following statement in response to the shooting at the Chabad synagogue in Poway, near San Diego, Calif.:
”We are devastated by the shooting at the Chabad synagogue and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We are grateful to law enforcement for their swift response.
It’s heartbreaking to see yet another tragedy on Shabbat, on the last day of Passover, exactly six months after the shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh.
This shooting is a reminder of the enduring virulence of anti-Semitism. It must serve as a call to action for us as a society to deal once and for all with this hate. People of all faiths should not have to live in fear of going to their house of worship. From Charleston to Pittsburgh to Oak Creek and from Christchurch to Sri Lanka, and now Poway, we need to say “enough is enough.” Our leaders need to stand united against hate and address it both on social media and in our communities.
ADL is on the ground in San Diego, working with local authorities to set up a community support center for those directly affected by the shooting. Our experts are working with law enforcement and monitoring the situation closely.”
Zioness sent this comment:
This afternoon, Zioness issued the following statement regarding the Chabad of Poway shooting:
“Today – like many days – is a frightening day to be a Jewish person. Another synagogue shooting, this time in San Diego, has darkened a sacred Jewish day and taken from us a Jewish soul.
Such an event is shocking, but not unimaginable in our country, America in 2019, where the stain of anti-Semitism continues to spread on both the political right and left, and finds a home on campuses, social media, and even mainstream media. The Jewish community feels besieged. We are scared, but also resolute.
Hatred and bigotry have been unleashed in our world and have targeted so many marginalized communities, including faith communities, in recent weeks and months. We stand with our allies against intolerance all over the world – and hope for solidarity at this moment of pain for our community as well.”
The Republican Jewish Coalition sent this comment:
Washington, DC (April 27, 2019) — Earlier today there was a heinous attack on the Chabad House in Poway, California. RJC National Chairman Senator Norm Coleman released the following statement:
The shooting at the Poway Chabad House, a Jewish house of worship, comes on the six-month anniversary of the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting. First and foremost, our prayers go out to the family of the fatally wounded worshiper, the wounded and their families, and the Jewish community of Southern California. Second, as the Mayor of Poway said, this is a hate crime, and we are reminded that as Jews we continue to be targets of hate even after 3000+ years. Finally, we are thankful to the first responders who appear to have already caught the shooter and have gotten the victims to help and safety quickly. These people are heroes.
Violence, especially violence born out of religious hate has no place in our society. The RJC strongly condemns anti-Semitism, racism and bigotry wherever it raises its head. We pray for a swift and complete recovery for all those injured. We also call on our elected leaders to do everything possible to combat anti-Semitism.
Congressman Scott Peters, D-San Diego, sent this comment:
Today, Rep. Scott Peters (CA-52) released the following statement after news that a gunman attacked the Chabad of Poway synagogue late this morning:
“Earlier today, the Poway and San Diego community tragically learned that a gunman attacked the Chabad of Poway synagogue, on this, the last day of Passover, a day that is supposed to be a celebration of faith and freedom. I am thinking of, and praying for, the victim who has passed away, those hurt, and the community deeply affected.
“While we mourn this devastation, I am grateful for the swift action of local law enforcement and medical personnel.
“Today also marks six months to the day of the tragedy at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh. Enough. Enough hate. Enough gun violence. I stand with all Jewish Americans today, especially those in Poway and San Diego.”
The Lawfare Project made this statement:
Today, The Lawfare Project issued the following statement in regards to the shooting at Chabad of Poway.
““Our hearts break at today’s news that on this Shabbat, a bigot armed with guns and hate attacked the Chabad of Poway, killing an innocent human being and injuring at least three others.
We cry out today. We cry out for the dead. We cry out for the injured. We cry out for the Chabad community of San Diego and for our global Jewish Community. We cry out for a world where these acts of violence against innocent worshipers have become all too common. We stand resolute against the hateful rhetoric that lurks in chat rooms and campuses alike, which incubates these evildoers – and against the evil of anti-Semitism, which is all too often dismissed and overlooked in our society.
We vow to continue our work to using all legal tools on earth to fight hate – and build a more just and safe world. We call on all good and decent people to condemn this evil act – and to commit to stopping this type of violence once and for all.”
About The Lawfare Project: Headquartered in New York, The Lawfare Project, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is a legal think tank and litigation fund committed to protecting the civil and human rights of Jewish communities around the world.
Hindus offer support for synagogue
Hindus have strongly condemned Saturday morning’s shooting at Chabad of Poway Synagogue, in Poway (California); and expressed sympathy to victims.
Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada today, said: We are deeply saddened by this horrific tragedy. Our hearts go out to the victims and their loved ones and the entire Jewish community. Targeting of innocent people at the sacred worship place is abhorrent.
It was a senseless and shocking act of violence. We condemn any and all acts of violence against innocent people. Our heartfelt prayers and sympathies go out to the victims, their families and friends; Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, added.
Rajan Zed further wrote: We are praying to Almighty to provide the mourning family help and consolation in dealing with this tragedy at this difficult time. Besides this family, we also express deep sympathies to the injured and their relatives and friends and all others affected. It was heartbreaking and appalling for the entire Hindu community.
Urging for interfaith unity, Zed stated: We, as people of faith, despite our different belief systems, must take a stand against violence by coming together with kindness and love.
Jack Rosen, president of the American Jewish Congress, wrote:
On this holy day of Shabbat, at the conclusion of Passover, the peace of sacred worship has been shattered.
We are deeply saddened to hear the news of the tragic shooting at the Chabad of Poway synagogue in Poway, California. One member of the congregation was murdered; three others were injured, including a child. We hope and pray for the dead and injured, their families and community, and for the law enforcement officers who prevented further injury and loss of life.
In yet another attack on our brothers and sisters, we are reminded of the dark shadow of hate that lies in the hearts of many, and that there are those would would do the Jewish people harm as we attempt to worship in peace. This unspeakable act was cruelly committed on the six-month anniversary of the tragedy in Pittsburgh, when another attacker stormed into a synagogue and murdered eleven Jewish worshipers, changing a community forever.
This is also a painful and urgent reminder of the consequences of hate speech. Attacks like this do not occur in a vacuum; when hateful rhetoric and nonviolent hate crimes are allowed to become a “normal” occurrence, this is the inevitable result. We can no longer afford to treat hate speech against Jews or any other minority as anything less than a precursor to violence and bloodshed.
We sincerely hope that, in time, the Jewish community of Poway will find some measure of peace. All Americans must join together to halt the expansion of hate, to protect ourselves, our country, and our future.
The Israel American Council issued the following statement:
This evening, the Israeli-American Council (IAC) issued the following statement on the shooting at the Chabad of Poway:
“The Israeli-American Council is horrified and devastated by the news that today – the last day of Passover – an evil man burst into the Chabad of Poway in Northern San Diego County and opened fire, killing one and injuring at least three.
These murders did not occur in a vacuum. They are the product of an age-old hate that continues to infect millions around the world.
Today’s events sound yet another alarm about the growing danger of anti-Semitism in our country.
In recent years, anti-Semitic tropes once confined to the fringes of our culture have been increasingly expressed openly and unabashedly, including in mainstream American media.
History’s lessons call on us as to act together with strength and unity to fight anti-Semitism wherever it rears its ugly head. The IAC will not stand silent.
At this moment of tragedy, the IAC community in San Diego and across the country will join as one family to provide comfort, healing and strength.
We thank law enforcement for rushing to protect our community and the emergency medical professionals who are treating the wounded.
Our prayers go out to the Jewish soul we lost today, to the injured, and their families. May the memory of the fallen be a blessing.”
Club Z sent this comment:
We are devastated by the horrific news of the shooting at Chabad of Poway in San Diego, Ca. A 19-year-old white supremacist killed at least one and injured three more innocent worshipers.
This act comes exactly six months to the day of the deadliest attack on the Jewish community in America, when 11 Jews were murdered at a synagogue in Pittsburgh.
We stand with the Chabad of Poway and our Jewish community in San Diego. Our thoughts are with all those affected.
We must come together during this difficult time and vow to fight antisemitism in all its forms, wherever it exists.
We must empower our next generation to stand against hate and bigotry. Enough is enough. The time is now for the American people to take action against antisemitism and work to end this tide of radical hatred.
Tifereth Israel Synagogue sent out this advisory:
Dear Tifereth Israel Family,
Words cannot adequately express the shock and the depth of our sorrow over today’s horrific attack at Chabad of Poway during Shabbat services, on the last day of Pesach, exactly six months after the massacre at Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. We mourn with our community. We stand with our brothers and sisters. We pray for peace.
We have been, and will continue to be, in close contact with law enforcement officials and the ADL. The San Diego Police Department stepped up patrols and stationed an officer at area synagogues – including Tifereth Israel – in the wake of this morning’s senseless attack, and it plans to post an officer and increase patrols at every synagogue during business hours as it continues to assess the situation.
Nothing is more important than the health and safety of our congregants, our children, and the people who work at Tifereth Israel Synagogue every day. Which is why Tifereth Israel, too, is again ramping up its security. We will, at least for the next few days, have an armed security guard at the front gate during business hours, including during Torah school on Sunday, at least until our Security Committee meets in emergency session Tuesday night.
Rest assured, we will not be deterred by hate. Our programming, our services, and our preschool and Torah School activities will go on as scheduled.
We will continue to keep you apprised of developments. We will continue to work with local, state, and federal law enforcement authorities. We urge all of you to carry your identification and access card when you are on the premises. We implore you to work with us and our security guards as we move forward.
May the Holy One continue to protect you and guard you.
David Ogul, President
Rabbi Joshua Dorsch
This comment came from the San Diego County Democratic Party:
Democratic Chair Rodriguez-Kennedy Offers “Sympathy, Solidarity, and Support” After Anti-Semitic Shooting in Poway
Will Rodriguez-Kennedy, Chair of the San Diego County Democratic Party, issued this statement following the shooting today at a local synagogue.
“The list of recent hate-driven attacks at places of worship – Christchurch, Pittsburgh, Charleston – is already far too long. Now, after today’s fatal shooting with an assault weapon at a synagogue in San Diego County, it includes Poway.
“To the victims, their loved ones, and all our Jewish neighbors, we offer sympathy, solidarity, and support. It is especially heartbreaking to see this cowardly act of terror take place on the last day of Passover, as dozens of people gathered at Congregation Chabad to celebrate their community and their faith.
“An investigation will tell whether its perpetrator was linked to the arson last month at the Dar-ul-Arqam mosque in Escondido, where anti-Muslim graffiti was left at the scene. But there is no question that these crimes are linked to the rhetoric of hate that has been rising alarmingly in recent years.
“Behind the threats and attacks that make the headlines are vile words and prejudices that often don’t, but are as unacceptable as they are pervasive. Those who send or tolerate such messages need to be called out every time, whether they’re speaking from behind a keyboard or from the White House lawn.
“The moment calls for more than sympathy after each awful incident occurs. It calls for action: in passing stronger gun safety laws; in refusing to let hateful thoughts and deeds stand any time we see them; and in holding our leaders accountable.
“In many of these incidents where assailants walked into open houses of prayer – Jewish, Muslim, or Christian – the people they came to kill met them with kindness. According to reports, in the Poway synagogue Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein attempted to calm the attacker before being shot and injured, after which he continued to offer words of comfort to his congregation.
“The message of love held by so many faiths, and so many people of no religious affiliation, deserves to be heard and put into practice now more than ever. That is what we share with all those who were hurt today, even as we join them in grief.”
The Jewish Federation of San Diego County issued this statement:
The Jewish Federation of San Diego County joins the entire San Diego community in mourning the death of Lori Kaye z”l who was gunned down in an act of senseless violence today at Chabad of Poway. We pray for the recovery of those injured and are here to support all those impacted by this horrific crime.
Brian Tauber, Board Chair of The Jewish Federation, made these comments:
“Our hearts are broken by the tragedy that took place today at Chabad of Poway, particularly for Lori and her family, who are living through unimaginable pain. During the days leading up to the commemoration of the Holocaust, we are reminded, once again, of the evils of anti-Semitism, bigotry, and hate, be it in San Diego, Pittsburgh, Sri Lanka or Christchurch.”
Michael Jeser, CEO of the Jewish Federation added:
“An unspeakable and cowardly act needlessly ended the life of Lori Kaye, injured 3 and traumatized many others. We hope and pray for everyone affected by today’s murder. We are heartbroken. We are sickened, saddened, and angered.”
Although the murder in Poway resulted in death and injury, the suspect is in custody and there are no other known credible threats at this time. The Federation is committed to working with its partners to address future security needs.
The Jewish Federation of San Diego County is working alongside its many community partners to bring the Jewish community and all of San Diego together to meet urgent needs of those impacted. We are in constant communication with our local ADL, which is leading the interface with local first responders and law enforcement. Jewish Family Service has already begun providing services on the ground.
We will continue to update the community as new information emerges. The Jewish Federation and Jewish Community Foundation are jointly creating a fund to meet the immediate physical, psychological, and spiritual needs of the victims and those impacted. This fund will address the devastating results of today’s attack at the Chabad of Poway. Funds will be prioritized to address those directly injured and impacted by the shooting. Additional funds will be used to support ongoing efforts to help the community heal from and feel safe despite these unspeakable acts. You can donate by visiting http://www.jewishinsandiego.org/donate and write “Chabad of Poway” in the comments section.
Please visit http://www.jewishinsandiego.org for more information throughout the coming days. We are stronger together.
Today, April 27, 2019, Masa Israel Journey CEO Liran Avisar Ben-Horin issued the following statement:
“On behalf of the Masa Israel Journey professional team, participants, and alumni from around the world, I want to express my horror and strongest condemnation of the heinous crime committed this Shabbat morning at the Chabad of Poway where a gunman opened fire on several worshipers gathering on the last day of Passover.
This period marks a holy time for Jewish people as we remember the persecution our ancestors faced in the land of Egypt and retell the story our journey from bondage to salvation in the land of Israel.
Today’s attack serves as a reminder that although we are no longer slaves in Egypt, the Jewish people still face persecution and anti-Semitism around the world.
The Masa family’s thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire San Diego Jewish community.”
Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc. (HWZOA) is devastated by the Saturday morning shooting at the Chabad of Poway, in San Diego County and by the recent targeting of other houses of worship in America and around the world.
We mourn, with the worldwide community, the tragic loss of one of our Hadassah sisters, Lori Gilbert- Kaye z”l, a beloved member of the Bat Harim group of Hadassah San Diego, who was fatally shot during morning services. Three others were wounded, including a child and Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein.
Learning that the woman who died in the horrendous shooting in San Diego was a Hadassah member doesn’t make this despicable act worse, but it does bring it closer to home. We are an organization that truly cares about its members, leaders, Associates, donors and supporters — but we also care about our communities and when one of us suffers, we all suffer.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Kaye Family and to all those who are grieving. May those injured have full and speedy recoveries. Although physical wounds heal within a timely manner, emotional ones take that much longer. I pray we are truly a support system for those who will need us to help them through this most difficult time.
This shooting comes 6 months to the day after 11 people were killed in a shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. Today’s tragedy occurred in a synagogue whose members are part of the largest and most widely known Orthodox Jewish community in the world.
Our hearts go out to all who have been affected by this tragedy, especially our members in the San Diego and Southern California area and our heartfelt thanks to an off duty officer and San Diego’s “First Responders,” who were successful in capturing the gunman.
According to a report by the ADL, anti-Semitic incidents and attacks have risen by 60% in the United States in the last year alone. This shocking escalation in hate both at home and abroad requires swift and broad action by our local, state and national leaders.
Hadassah members have a part to play by advocating for our policy priorities including the Never Again Education Act; a bill that would expand Holocaust Education and anti-hate curricula in the schools. As members of Hadassah, we must reaffirm our commitment to fighting anti-Semitism and hate wherever they are present.
When one life is taken, all our lives are affected and we stand united in common grief and a conviction to make the world a better place. May we go from strength to strength.
May the memory of Lori Gilbert-Kaye serve as a blessing to all who knew her and as inspiration to all who only knew of her.
Adopt a Family Foundation issued this statement:
This Shabbat and last day of Pessah, we experienced the horrific result of hate and antisemitism in our very own home.
With broken hearts, we, at Adopt a Family Foundation stand by Chabad Poway, and all our Community.
Our prayers and thoughts go out to those who have been wounded and their families, wishing them a speedy and strong recovery.
We are mourning the death of Lori Kaye z”l who was gunned down in an act of senseless violence today at Chabad of Poway.
Our deepest condolences go out to her family. May her memory be blessed.
There are no words that can excuse such hate crimes.
The people wounded in this attack moved to San Diego from Sderot, Israel, hoping to get away from the constant rocket attacks.
Let’s stay strong and united in such difficult times. Let’s pray and hope for better times, more understanding and acceptance.
Am Echad, Lev Echad.
One People, One Heart.
Here and all around the World.
The Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America issued this statement:
Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America, Rabbinical Council of America Express Sympathy to Families of Woman Murdered in San Diego Synagogue Attack
The Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America and the Rabbinical Council of America express their deepest sympathy to the families of the woman murdered in the horrific attack that took place during Shabbat and Passover prayer services Saturday morning at the Chabad of Poway synagogue in southern California. We pray for the speedy recovery of the rabbi and other congregants injured in the shooting.
“This senseless act of anti-Semitic violence was not only a heinous attack on the Jewish community, but an attack on the very foundation of civil society and our collective democratic values,” said Allen Fagin, the Orthodox Union’s executive vice president.
“Our hearts break for the senseless murder and injury of our fellow Jews and all victims of vicious hate crimes,” said Mark (Moishe) Bane, president of the Orthodox Union. “We condemn the dangerous rhetoric that foments such senseless violence and we stand with the Chabad of Poway community and entire southern California Jewish community at this terrible time.”
Rabbi Elazar Muskin, president of the Rabbinical Council of America, stated: “As a nation, committed to freedom and rights for all, we must commit to protect not only those who are like us in their places of worship, but also those who worship differently from us as well.”
Said Rabbi Mark Dratch, executive vice president of the Rabbinical Council of America, “One of the most fundamental rights of citizens of the United States is the freedom to worship as we believe and to live in safety and security. We need to come together as a nation to protect these precious gifts for all members of all faiths.”
Nathan Diament, the Orthodox Union’s executive director for public policy, stated: “We are deeply grateful for the rapid response of law enforcement officers and their apprehension of this terrorist. The Orthodox Union will continue to work with federal, state and local officials across the nation to provide the necessary resources to ensure the security of our synagogues and other houses of worship.”
StandWithUs issued this statement: StandWithUs staff and Board members around the world are shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific shooting at the Chabad Congregation in Poway during Shabbat services on 4/27. The shooter murdered Lori Gilbert Kaye, and wounded three others.
Senseless hate leads to violence, and has impacted the Jewish people for thousands of years. Its time that good people of all faiths get together to find effective ways to stop hate and bigotry. StandWithUs stands in solidarity with Chabad, with San Diego, and with all people of good faith around the world who are alarmed by such barbaric acts of hatred.
Those injured include the Chabad Rabbi, Yisroel Goldstein. Also injured were 8 year old Noya and her 32 year old uncle, Alon, who were from Sderot, Israel, where they have suffered the long term horrors of constant rocket attacks from Hamas.
The attack against Jewish worshipers was carried out by John T. Earnest, a 19 year old white supremacist who was clearly motivated by antisemitic hate. This shocking incident comes exactly six months to the day since the massacre at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh. We are most grateful to law enforcement for apprehending the terrorist before he could hurt others.
Our heartfelt prayers go out to the family of Lori Gilbert Kaye, Z”L, and the innocent victims who were injured today during Shabbat services.
StandWithUs–San Diego issued this statement:
StandWithUs San Diego Staff and Board members are shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific shooting at the Chabad Congregation in Poway during Shabbat services on 4/27. The shooter murdered Lori Gilbert Kaye, and wounded three others. Those injured include the Chabad Rabbi, Yisroel Goldstein. Also injured were 8 year old Noya and her 32 year old uncle, Alon, who were from Sderot, Israel, where they have suffered the long term horrors of constant rocket attacks from Hamas.
The attack against Jewish worshipers was carried out by John T. Earnest, a 19 year old white supremacist who was clearly motivated by antisemitic hate. This shocking incident comes exactly six months to the day since the massacre at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh. We are most grateful to law enforcement for apprehending the terrorist before he could hurt others.
Senseless hate leads to violence, and has impacted the Jewish people for thousands of years. It’s time that good people of all faiths get together to find effective ways to stop hate and bigotry. StandWithUs stands in solidarity with Chabad, with San Diego, and with all people of good faith around the world who are alarmed by such barbaric acts of hatred.
Lori was a friend and supporter of StandWithUs and her loss is felt deeply all around the world. Our heartfelt prayers go out to the family of Lori Gilbert Kaye, Z”L, and the innocent victims who were injured today during Shabbat services.
It is monstrous hate crimes like these that remind us of the importance of our mission, which is to educate against the antisemitic lies that all too often lead to this type of violence.
Sincerely,
Micha Danzig, Board President
Yael Steinberg, Associate Director StandWithUs San Diego
Rabbi Rafi Andrusier of Chabad of East County, speaking for himself and his wife Chaya, issued this statement:
I am shocked and pained by the deadly attack that took place earlier today, the last day of Pesach, during services, at Chabad of Poway.
We grieve for the family of Lori Gilbert-Kaye, who lost her life by protecting others. In addition to being part of the Poway Chabad community, she was also part of Chabad in S. Diego community, where her children attended Chabad Hebrew Academy in Scripps Ranch. Chaya and her parents, Rabbi Dovid and Rochel Smoller knew her well.
We pray for the recovery of Rabbi Y. Goldstein, Noya Dahan, a sweet young 8 year old girl, & her uncle Almog Peretz, who were injured in the attack. Thank G-d, we heard reports that they will be okay.
We are sincerely grateful to the response of the SDPD and Sheriff’s Office.
We will continue to review our security measures & take further precautions to ensure everyone’s safety at Chabad of East County.
We thank all of those who checked in on us, from Jews and non-Jews, and showed their care & support.
Details of a community vigil will be forthcoming.
Alongside the natural mourning and grief, there is a need to focus on things that will result in action and positive change.
Please do an extra mitzvah in the merit of a complete recovery of the injured.
Make sure to attend Shul this week. We fight evil by adding more light!
Let us pray that Hashem send healing and comfort to the entire community!
We pray for the day when all evil and hatred will vanish from the world, with the coming of Moshiach, speedily in our days.
Sincerely,
Rabbi Rafi Andrusier
Chabad of East County
Stosh Cotler, CEO of Bend the Arc, issued this statement:
Following the devastating shooting at the Chabad of Poway synagogue in California that murdered one person and left three injured, Stosh Cotler, CEO of Bend the Arc: Jewish Action, released the following statement:
“Our hearts are breaking for the victims of the shooting at the Chabad of Poway and their loved ones. On this last day of Passover, exactly six months after the shooting at Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, we again mourn together with our Jewish community as we collectively experience the pain of antisemitic violence in our houses of prayer.
“Our hearts are also breaking for our country and for the damage that has been done to our society. Although it may be hard to accept, the fact that we witnessed yet another act of white nationalist violence is sadly not ‘hard to believe,’ as President Trump said in response to the shooting. Not when the President and his allies have helped mainstream white nationalism in American politics, making our nation ripe for the acts of terror in Poway and in Pittsburgh, where both shooters were inspired by conspiracy theories peddled by the President and his allies, and contributing to an increase in acts of antisemitic, anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant, anti-Black and anti-LGBTQ violence in recent years. Not when social media companies allow white nationalist groups to use their platforms to spread their toxic hate. Not when our national leaders not only fail to take the rise of this dangerous and violent movement seriously, but continue to embolden this hatred every day through their radical policies, which harm the same communities targeted by white nationalists.
“This violence, driven by hatred and bigotry, must end. Americans, Jewish and otherwise, deserve to be safe, and we deserve elected leaders who care for our lives. Now more than ever, we are committed to building solidarity within our Jewish community and with our allies to ensure our collective safety, defeat white nationalism and advance a vision of a multi-racial democracy where all of us can live, love and thrive.”
Dorothea Shefer-Vanson, author and SDJW columnist, sent this message:
Yigal and I were horrified by the news from San Diego (well, near
S.D.) yesterday. A few days ago we saw a National Geographic
documentary about S.D., and the bottom line is that it’s a perfect
combination of different communities living in harmony and tolerance
side by side, as well as having ideal climate and facilities of every
kind.
Our sad conclusion must be that anything can happen anywhere any time.
Our thoughts are with you, and we hope that you and yours are
untouched. Of course, no-one is immune to psychological trauma, but at
least the physical aspect is not affected.
i read your piece about what happened, and am full of admiration for
the way you collated all the various elements and put them together
seemingly seamlessly.
Pastor Jentezen Franklin issued this statement:
In response to the synagogue shooting in Poway, California, Pastor Jentezen Franklin issues the following remarks:
“It seems a week doesn’t go by before we hear of yet another attack against those peacefully exercising their right to worship. I’m grieving for the people of Poway, California tonight and the Jewish community around the world after such a senseless synagogue shooting. I so desperately want the world to know that the God who made us and loves us does not call us to act in violence towards anyone. In a time of increasing hostility towards nearly every faith, I pray we all take a moment to remind our children that a bullet, a bomb or a clenched fist is never the answer to our troubles. Loving your neighbor—no matter their race, religion, or creed—is always the better choice.
(Pastor Jentezen Franklin is the Senior Pastor of Free Chapel, a multi-campus church. Each week his television program “Kingdom Connection” is broadcast on major networks all over the world. A New York Times best-selling author, Jentezen has written eight books including his latest, Love Like You’ve Never Been Hurt.)
San Diego Jewish World columnist Joel Cohen sent this message:
How sad and terrible, the latest incident. Do you know anyone who attends that shul?
At ours, with a small congregation and smaller attendance, we now have have numbered keys with a door-opening code,but members and our rabbi are prepared to open the door for recognized people who con’t know or can’t handle the code.
To better news,
The National Jewish Committee on Scouting issued this statement:
The National Jewish Committee on Scouting is deeply bereaved at the loss of life and the injuries caused in the Poway, California Passover Chabad House shooting. We rededicate ourselves to the mission we have pursued for over 90 years: to teach young Americans the true meaning of freedom, service, and personal responsibility: the divine gifts we celebrate on Passover. We in Scouting gratefully affirm the spirit of patriotism articulated in 1776 by Thomas Paine: “It is the will of the Divine that there be a diversity of religious opinions among us.” We continue to work for the time when that vision touches the hearts of all Americans.
Bruce Chudacoff, Chairman, National Jewish Committee on Scouting
Rabbi Joseph Prouser, National Chaplain
Rabbi Peter Hyman, Chaplain Emeritus
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Sol Lizerbram, national president of the Jewish National Fund and a San Diego County resident, made this comment:
On behalf of the board of directors, staff and Jewish National Fund Family comprising hundreds of thousands of donors across the United States, I extend my deepest condolences to the congregants of Chabad of Poway Synagogue and my neighbors of the San Diego community on the brutal attack and murder that took place on Saturday, April 27, during Shabbat and the final day of Passover.
Adding to our grief, this act of hate and terror marks the second time in six months a Jewish house of worship in the United States has been targeted.
As we have witnessed similar incidents in Pittsburgh, Paris, Poland, and Israel, we must realize that regardless of where these horrific events take place, they impact our community—the community of the Jewish people—and as always, our community stands united with the hope that such hatred and bigotry will be eradicated from our world as terror knows no borders.
Yesterday’s shooting claimed Lori Gilbert-Kaye, a pillar of our community and the Jewish people. She and her husband, Dr. Howard Kaye, have supported JNF-USA since the 1990s as regular tree buyers. Their trees planted have and will continue to have a role in the future of Israel and the Jewish people, making the land better while providing life to our ancient ancestral soil and its many ecosystems for generations to come.
Also injured was a young girl who recently moved to San Diego from Sderot, a small town along the Gaza border, where rocket attacks regularly rain down on her neighbors. Injured also was her uncle, visiting from Sderot for the Passover holiday.
To the Kaye family, and the victims of this senseless tragedy, we offer our love, prayers, and support in whatever we can do to assist at this time. My wife Lauren and I are taking the first step to ensure that Lori’s name and spirit live on in perpetuity as we plant a forest in Israel in her loving memory, and we ask our friends across the nation to join us. May her name and memory be for a blessing.
Isaac Herzog, chairman of the Jewish Agency for Israel, issued this statement:
ing statement:
“The anti-Semitic attack at Chabad of Poway in California is horrifying. We at The Jewish Agency for Israel are closely following events and mourn the loss of life and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. It’s immoral to attack people of any faith at any place of worship. It must be stopped!”
Most Rev. Joseph D’Souza, writing from Hyderabad, India, released the following statement:
“There is no worse form of terrorist extremism than an attack on a place of worship — whether it be arson at churches in Louisiana, mass shootings at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, or this weekend’s attack on a synagogue in Poway, California. This evil must be confronted by all of us, especially faith leaders who at times have to overcome threats from within their own community to speak up against extremism. We cannot be bystanders in this war against the right of any community to worship in peace. Enough is enough”
(Most Rev. Joseph D’Souza is widely considered one of the most influential voices of global Christianity. He is a justice and peace campaigner, civil rights advocate, interfaith peacemaker and Christian theologian.Rev. D’Souza is the founder and international president of Dignity Freedom Network, a multinational advocacy and humanitarian aid alliance dedicated to restoring human dignity to the poor, marginalized and outcastes of South Asia. He also presides as moderator bishop and primate — or archbishop — over the Good Shepherd Church of India. He is a sought-after international speaker, a thought leader on religious freedom and human rights issues and a regular contributor at publications such as The Hill, The Washington Times and Newsmax, among others.)
The Jewish Community Foundation of San Diego County issued the following comment:
The Jewish Community Foundation joins San Diego and the global Jewish community in expressing our sadness and horror at yesterday’s shooting at Chabad of Poway. We stand with our entire community, especially those most directly impacted, and extend our deepest condolences to the Gilbert and Kaye families. We wish a speedy r’fuah shlema to those who were injured.
The JCF stands ready to help meet the needs of victims and to ensure the safety and security of the entire community going forward.
We are working with our partners across the Jewish community and will be in touch shortly with how you can help.
With peace in our hearts, we stand strong and united.
Beth Sirull
President and Chief Executive Officer
Miriam and Jerome Katzin Presidential Chair
Chabad of University City issued this statement:
Dear Friends & Family,
We are tremendously saddened and pained by the deadly attack that took place yesterday, on the last day of Pesach, during services, at Chabad of Poway.
Our hearts are with the family of Lori Kaye who was murdered and pray for the recovery of our colleague Rabbi Yisrael Goldstein, and the others who were injured, Alon Peretz, and the child, Noya Dahan.
We would like to share this interview with Rabbi Yisrael Goldstein. His courage, moral clarity and leadership at this time are remarkable and inspiring.
https://www.today.com/video/rabbi-injured-during-poway-synagogue-shooting-i-m-heartbroken-1510946883942
Moments after the attack, after apprehending the shooter and being shot in his hand, Rabbi Goldstein reportedly gathered his community and lead them outside to safety. There he continued to inspire them with the words:
“We are strong, we are united, and they can’t break us.”
This tragedy is a reminder that we need to take security very seriously. At the same time, we cannot allow ourselves to be terrorized.
Instead, we must steadfastly resolve to do all we can to bring more light into the world, through acts of goodness and kindness, until our collective good will culminate in the fulfillment of the vision of the prophets of a world at peace, perfected and redeemed.
With sorrow,
Rabbi Moishe and Sura Leider
Rabbi Yechiel and Ita Cagen
Chabad of S. Diego County made this statement:
OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM CHABAD OF S. DIEGO COUNTY
Dear Friends & Family,
In the face of senseless hate we commit to live proudly as Jews in this glorious country. We strongly believe that love is exponentially more powerful than hate. We are deeply shaken by the loss of a true woman of valor, Lori Kaye, who lost her life solely for living as a Jew.
We double down in our commitment to educate our youth as to the beauty and vitality of Judaism.
As evidenced by the outpouring of love and support by neighbors, strangers, public officials and organizations across all faiths, our community is one of peace, friendship and kindness. We are sincerely grateful for the instant response of the SDPD and Sheriff’s Office to the continued safety of our synagogues.
May G-d bless the injured Rabbi Goldstein, Noya Dahan, Almog Peretz, and all the members of Chabad of Poway, our valiant first responders, and these United States of America.
We ask that you give your child a hug, bring them to shul and demonstrate that Judaism is a religion of vitality and joy!
With heartfelt blessings,
Rabbi Yonah Fradkin
Executive Director, Chabad of San Diego County
Pingback: Wounded rabbi pays tribute to slain congregant | San Diego Jewish World
The American Jewish Committee issued this statement:
American Jewish Committee (AJC), the leading global Jewish advocacy group, is calling for urgent action at all levels of government to intensify the fight against anti-Semitism.
The call comes following the violent attack on Chabad of Poway, a synagogue near San Diego, California, that left one worshiper dead and several wounded. Law enforcement authorities have arrested a 19-year-old and charged him with murder and committing a hate crime. His “manifesto” makes chilling reading about race, about Israel, and his larger world view.
“When will this open-hunting season on Jews end?” said AJC CEO David Harris, adding that “the need for beefed-up efforts to combat anti-Semitism in the United States should be abundantly clear.”
“Once again, American Jews are compelled to ask what more can be done to protect houses of worship, indeed all Jewish institutions, even as we extend our deep condolences to the family and friends of Lori Gilbert Kaye, and full recovery of those wounded, including a child, in this heinous attack during a Shabbat service on the last day of Passover,” said Harris.
The weekend attack comes only six months after the killing of 11 worshipers at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, the most lethal anti-Semitic attack in American history.
“Without in any way minimizing the incredibly dedicated efforts of officials to date, heightened action is required, or else we sadly could one day be reacting to yet another attack on a synagogue, or for that matter, on a church or a mosque, or another house of worship,” said Harris.
Noting that Jews, according to the FBI, remain the primary target of religiously-motivated hate crimes, and estimated incidents in the U.S. rose nearly 60 percent in 2018, Harris called on Congress to take two actions immediately.
AJC is urging all Members of Congress join the Bipartisan Taskforce for Combating Anti-Semitism. The Taskforce, created in 2015 with AJC input, plays a critical role in coordinating congressional efforts, such as legislation and interparliamentary engagement, to combat anti-Semitism. While its initial focus was largely anti-Semitism abroad, it’s evident that much of the attention now needs to be focused domestically.
“Any Member of Congress who has not yet joined the Bipartisan Taskforce for Combating Anti-Semitism should please consider doing so now. Full membership will send a powerful message of bipartisan unity that the specific anti-Semitism cancer must be confronted head-on and whatever its source,” said Harris.
As a second urgent step, AJC is calling on Congress to hold hearings on violence motivated by white supremacist ideologies. The individuals who carried out the deadly attacks at the synagogues in Pittsburgh and Poway were adherents of such ideologies. Earlier, AJC called on the U.S. government to make the examination of white supremacists a national priority.
Rabbi Yeruchem Eilfort of Chabad of La Costa issued the following statement:
It is with a heavy heart that I write to you today. As you have heard there was a shooting yesterday at Chabad of Poway where tragically a wonderful person, Lori Kaye, who was well known to my family was murdered because she was Jewish. There were additional casualties including a colleague of mine, Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, as well as Noya Dahan, and Almog Peretz. Countless miracles and heroic accounts are coming to light, however, the ‘fog of war’ is still very much in evidence.
Action Items:
I have been contacted by hundreds of people, most of whom we know, many of whom we don’t know, offering moral support and asking what needs to be done. Thank you for reaching out! I apologize that I haven’t yet been able to respond to everyone. For those who want to DO something – TONIGHT there will be a candlelight vigil at Valle Verde Park in Poway (which is just a block from Chabad of Poway). Rabbi Goldstein will be there as will the Mayor of Poway, Steve Vaus. The address of the Park is 16899 St. Andrews Drive, Poway, 92064. The vigil begins at 7pm. There will be plenty of security, but parking is limited so an early arrival is recommended.
Tomorrow at 2pm the memorial service for Lori Kaye will be held at Chabad of Poway, 16934 Chabad Way, Poway, 92064. Following the memorial service at 4pm there will be a funeral service at El Camino Memorial Park, 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, 92121, in the Garden of Eden section. The memorial service will almost certainly be filled to overflowing, but overflow space outside will be provided.
Those who would like to make a donation to Chabad of Poway can do so by logging onto http://www.ChabadPoway.com. They are trying to raise money to help defray the funeral expenses and for the necessary repairs.
Fighting the darkness with light. A recurring theme that we have discussed numerous times. The Rebbe taught us that when an unspeakable act of darkness occurs we fight back (and win) by adding light! And so we will act on our pain and turn it into action. Specifically we will seek ways to help others. A. In this regard we are asking all women to commit to lighting Shabbat candles this coming week (7:15pm in Carlsbad, CA) in memory of Lori Kaye, who – may G-d have mercy – cannot light them herself this week. The women must be her emissary in adding light! B. As for the men; Rabbi Goldstein was wounded and lost one of his fingers and for now doesn’t have use of his hands – so we must use our hands to put on Tefillin in honor of his complete and speedy recovery. C. We want to show the world that we will win the war with goodness and kindness. How? We are asking our friends and neighbors to join us in the synagogue this coming Saturday, May 4th, at 10am. We are proclaiming this Shabbat a Stand With Chabad of Poway service. We will mourn together, but we will also celebrate together, as we remember, “Am Yisroel Chai!,” The Nation of Israel LIVES.
Please, respond to this Mitzvah appeal by responding to this message. We are going to try to keep track of the added Mitzvos and would like to know if you are planning on joining us.
It is true that anti-Semitism still exists. But it is also true that we live in an amazing country surrounded by friends and neighbors who love us and look after us (as we do with them). Our Carlsbad Police Department, as well as the San Diego County Sheriff, and many other law enforcement agencies are the angels on our shoulders. They have their protective eyes on us. The goodness and kindness that resides in people, the G-dly spark, the soul, is alive and well. We must focus on what binds us together as human beings. We must reveal the G-dly spark in each of us, and then we will put an end, once and for all, to the madness of anti-Semitism! Most importantly, the Master of the Universe is our Loving Parent. He WILL watch over us and send His divine blessings, and we will continue to work to create a vessel into which His blessings may reside.
Please note that there is NOTHING more important to us than the safety and security of those who attend Chabad at La Costa. We are adding safety measures and will continue to do so. We are moving forward with our Federal Homeland Security Grant, which will harden our facility. Our staff and volunteers will continue with their training. We will have armed guards as well as other measures recommended by the experts in this field. We will leave nothing to happenstance.
I know that many are shaken up due to this tragedy striking so close to home. Remember, we are here for YOU. We will always be here for you, just as you have been here for us. We are a FAMILY. We stick together through thick and thin. If you need to talk let me know.
In conclusion; May G-d send comfort to Lori Kaye’s family, friends, and community! May the Almighty send a complete and speedy recovery to Rabbi Goldstein and the rest of the wounded! And may the Creator bless all of us to see the end of all human hatred and suffering with the speedy arrival of His Righteous Moshiach!
Sincerely,
Rabbi Yeruchem Eilfort
Shabbat San Diego sent the following message:
It is with a heavy heart that Shabbat San Diego mourns Shabbat’s tragic events at our Partner organization, Chabad of Poway. We offer our condolences to the family of Lori Kaye (z”l). May her memory be a blessing to her family and the entire community. We pray for the quick recovery of the injured, including our friend Rabbi Goldstein. At this time our thoughts are also with the entire membership of the Chabad of Poway.
Shabbat San Diego, as an independent grassroots volunteer based organization recognizes the importance of community unity to express our repugnance for the increasing scourge of anti-Semitism we are witnessing locally, nationally and universally. Shabbat San Diego believes that by participating in Jewish community events, each of us can make a difference through our pride in our identity, building community solidarity, strengthening local organizations, and impacting policy makers.
Shabbat San Diego and the entire global Shabbat Project in 1,614 cities in 101 countries, join together as one to provide wishes of comfort, healing, and strength to all impacted by this tragedy.
We thank law enforcement and the emergency medical professionals for their timely and ongoing support in limiting further injury and treating the wounded.
SHABBAT SAN DIEGO
Selwyn Isakow
Robyn Lichter
Simone Abelsohn
Juliet Moses of The New Zealand Jewish Council Inc. issued this statement:
We are deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the synagogue shooting in California, leaving one person dead and three injured. Our prayers are with the injured and all those affected. This attack occurred while worshipers celebrated the end of Passover, a festival that celebrates the liberation and resilience of the Jewish people, six months to the day after the massacre at the Tree of Life synagogue. The gunman was apparently inspired by the Christchurch mosque atrocity. Worshipers at mosques, churches and synagogues are attacked around the world. We declare enough is enough. It is a very troubling indictment on the state of the world that people of faith cannot pray in peace without fear for their lives. We hope people of all faiths and of one will join together to fight and defeat this scourge on humanity.
The Murray Galinson San Diego Israel Initiative issued this statement on April 29:
We join in the shock and disgust felt by people all over the world and condemn the horrific shooting at Chabad of Poway this past Saturday.
Our San Diego campus colleagues have been reaching out with support and suggested opportunities to deepen their educational missions and impact. I look forward to writing more about those soon. For now, I want to share two important opportunities to show your solidarity on campus.
UCSD – Tuesday, April 30th
2:00pm, Silent Tree in front of Geisel Library
Our partner, the UCSD Hillel, will hold a vigil in memory of those injured and killed.
SDSU – Wednesday, May 1st
12:00pm, courtyard outside Scripps Cottage
Our partner, the SDSU Jewish Studies Program, will hold a Silent Vigil of Solidarity. May 1st is also Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day. I welcome the chance to see you.
Please join us in coming together as a community of colleagues, students, and friends to show our solidarity in rejecting all hate and violence.
In friendship and gratitude,
Susan
Susan Lapidus
Director
We are devastated by the anti-Semitic and hate-filled attack at the Chabad of Poway synagogue near San Diego on Saturday, as they were celebrating the last day of Passover. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the San Diego and Chabad communities at this time, and we pray for the recovery of the victims and mourn the tragic death of Lori Kaye.
Unfortunately, we live in a climate where hate and bigotry is present in our community and throughout the world. From Charleston and Pittsburgh to Oak Creek and Sri Lanka to Christchurch and now Chabad of Poway, we continue to see ways in which individual actions have enormous traumatic effects on communities. The Boulder JCC remains committed to being a safe space for community building and meaningful discourse, as well as a center for vibrant Jewish life in Boulder County. In times like these, our role in the community of dispelling the myth of the other is ever more important on a local, national, and international level.
Below is some information, resources, and statements that may be helpful during this time:
Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, who was wounded during the attack, has reflected on the events and shared a common vision for our future. You can watch his response on YouTube.
If you’re looking for ways to financially support the Poway community, Chabad of Poway has set up a donation link through their website. Please consider making a donation to their recovery efforts.
The Boulder Jewish News has compiled statements from a variety of organizations and rabbis in our community. Rabbi Greene of Congregation Har HaShem also shared a recorded video response.
The Anti-Defamation League’s, 5 Things You Can Do To Combat Hate, provides multiple avenues to take action.
In light of the recent anti-Semitic attacks, it is important that we never forget the Holocaust while also acknowledging the reemergence of thriving, contemporary Jewish communities around the world. We invite you to join us at these upcoming events. All are open to our entire community, for people of all faiths:
May 1: Yom HaShoah v’HaGevurah, Day of Remembrance of the Holocaust and the Heroism. This community-wide observance will take place at Congregation Nevei Kodesh at 7 pm. Free, RSVP required.
May 1: Yom HaShoah Program Lunch and Learn – “Buried Rivers: A Spiritual Journey into the Holocaust.” 2 pm at the Boulder JCC. $15 in advance, lunch included.
May 5: Americans and the Holocaust – What Did Coloradans Know? A program of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the Boulder JCC. 1:30 pm at the Boulder JCC. Free, RSVP required.
May 14: “The Rebirth of Jewish Life in Poland,” a talk with Krakow JCC Executive Director, Jonathan Ornstein. 6 pm at the Boulder JCC. Free, RSVP required.
As always, security is our number one priority and we are in close communication with local law enforcement, our national safety and security networks, along with our dedicated security team to ensure the safety of our community. We remind everyone in our community, “If You See Something, Say Something.”
Please take care of yourselves and each other through this difficult time. If you have any questions please contact me at jonathan@boulderjcc.org or 303-998-1900 x1001.
In peace,
JLev Signature
Jonathan Lev
Executive Director
The Butterfly Project issued the following statement:
As you are likely aware, our local San Diego Jewish community came under attack this past Saturday. Chabad of Poway was the target of a horrific anti-Semitic attack, and one of our own community members Lori Kaye z”l of blessed memory was taken from us. Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, a young girl, Noya Dahan and her uncle Almog Peretz were injured by the gunman’s bullets.
Today, we have heavy hearts as we reflect on this event, trying to make sense of what it means for each of us individually and for our local and international community as a whole. Through guidance from leaders in our community and time spent in quiet contemplation, we realize that there is an important message for us to share with our circle today.
Our work at The Butterfly Project aims to help students become empowered to learn from the lessons of the Holocaust and stand up to bigotry and hatred today. We are so grateful to our community of educators and participants from around the world for reaching out to us and sharing their concern and commitment to keep vigilant. At this time, it is more important than ever that we stay strong in our faith, connect deeper with our community and other faith communities, and continue to stand up against the hate, bigotry, and intolerance that led to this horror and others like it around the world.
Many of us, both Jewish and non-Jewish, have asked how we can stand in solidarity with Chabad of Poway.
Here is what we were told…
Do something kind. In the Jewish religion, it’s called a mitzvah… a good deed done. The strongest act of unity we can offer at this time is to engage in mitzvahs on behalf of Chabad of Poway.
So please, take some time today, this week, and this month to do your own mitzvah and remind the Jewish community of San Diego that they are not alone right now.
Additionally, if you would like to offer financial support to Chabad of Poway…
Two San Diego Jewish organizations, Jewish Federation of San Diego and Jewish Family Services, have created a fund to help support the victims and their families. We ask that you please consider donating to this fund.
From Jewish Federation of San Diego and Jewish Family Services:
“The Chabad of Poway Tragedy Fund will address the devastating results of the attack at the Chabad of Poway. Funds will be prioritized to address those directly injured and impacted by the shooting. Additional funds will be used to support ongoing efforts to help the community heal from and feel safe despite these unspeakable acts. We will continue to update the community as new information emerges.”
Click to Donate
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San Diego Pride released this statement:
San Diego Pride and the DevOUT Interfaith Coalition are deeply grieved by yet another act of terrorism targeting our community. We stand united against all acts of hate-motivated violence: whether that affects LGBTQ people in Orlando, a mosque in New Zealand, black churches around the country, a church in Sri Lanka on Easter, or a synagogue on the last day of Passover. No one should be gunned down for what they believe, where they worship, the color of their skin, or who they love. The LGBTQ community and our own organization are not strangers to these kinds of hate-motivated acts of violence, and we are united in our shared struggle for equality, acceptance, and peace. We stand in solidarity with Congregation Chabad in Poway, mourn the devastating effects of this act of anti-Semitic and white supremacist terror, and commit to working across faiths to bring justice and equality to San Diego and beyond.
We will be attending the community vigil in Poway High School (15500 Espola Road, Poway, CA 92064) this evening at 6:30PM along with our friends at ADL, Jewish Community Foundation, Jewish Family Services, Jewish Federation, and Poway Unified School District, and we hope to see you there.
With Love and Hope,
Fernando Z. López
Executive Director
San Diego LGBT Pride
Pastor Brandan Robertson
DevOUT Co-chair
San Diego Pride
Anna Runion, Minister
DevOUT Co-chair
San Diego Pride
The Jewish Democratic Council of America issued this statement:
We are deeply saddened by the horrific attack at the Chabad Synagogue in Poway, California which led to the death of one congregant and the injury of three others. Six months to the day since the horrific massacre at the Tree of Life Synagogue, our community was again targeted by violence. While we mourn this senseless loss of life and pray for those who have been injured, we must also remain vigilant and not overlook the factors that laid the foundation for this unconscionable hate crime.
On Saturday morning, NBCNews.com published an op-ed I wrote on Passover regarding President Trump’s betrayal of the values we honor on that holiday. I noted that “his divisive actions and rhetoric have corresponded with rising hate crimes targeting religious and racial minorities, and a deep and growing sense of insecurity among American Jews.” Just a few hours later, a white supremacist armed with an assault weapon launched a vicious attack on innocent worshippers on the last day of Passover.
Given the horror of this attack, I have written a postscript to the op-ed that I wanted to share, detailing the president’s comments immediately before and after Saturday’s shooting. Less than 24 hours before the Poway attack, President Trump had the audacity to defend his description of white supremacists as being “very fine people” in Charlottesville, and even defended Robert E. Lee, who fought for white supremacy by waging war against the United States. Just hours after the Poway attack, the president told thousands of people in Green Bay, Wisconsin, that he was “proud” of the fact that sending immigrants to sanctuary cities was his “sick idea,” lauding himself for his own xenophobia and even acknowledging it as slightly deranged.
Americans should not be fooled by Trump’s shallow condemnation of anti-Semitism while the cameras are rolling, nor should we forget the vitriol he has espoused from the campaign trail to the Oval Office and throughout his presidency. These words have led to a deep and growing sense of insecurity for American Jews and other religious and racial minorities. Just as we will never forget those tragically lost in Pittsburgh and Poway, we will never forget that the President of the United States has fomented and inspired hate.
Read the Passover op-ed on NBCNews.com >>
Read the postscript in the aftermath of the Poway shooting >>
We are fighting each day for our values, and encourage you to join us and consider supporting our efforts as we aim to combat anti-Semitism, hatred and intolerance.
Halie Soifer
Executive Director, Jewish Democratic Council of America
Herut North America – The Jabotinsky Movement, joins with Jews the world over and mourns the tragic loss of Lori Gilbert-Kaye Z”L who was murdered at the Chabad of Poway on the last day of the Passover festival.
“That this coldblooded murderer committed this atrocity exactly six months after the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting is not lost on us,” stated Moshe Phillips, National Director of the U.S. Division of Herut North America.
“The words we recited at the Seder from the Haggadah “In every generation they rise up against us” echoed in our minds as the news reports assaulted us with the story of this latest deadly attack on U.S. Jews. The same anti-Jewish conspiracy theories that animate many in the Islamic world, neo-Nazis, Farrakhan’s Nation of Islam, and other haters seems to have motivated this killer as well. The only answer to such lone wolf attackers is stronger security and stronger Jewish Unity,” continued Phillips.
Herut calls upon all Jews, wherever they are, to take concrete steps to internalize the lessons from this attack: the importance of both physical security and Jewish Unity and that these two lessons are bound together now just as they have been since ancient times.
“Jews must be prepared at all times to defend one another. This is one of the main themes of the life of the great Zionist leader Zeev Jabotinsky (1880-1940) who is the inspiration of the Herut movement,” stated Karma Feinstein-Cohen, the executive director of World Herut and a member of the Board of Governors of the Jewish Agency.
Jabotinsky led the Organization for Jewish Self-Defense in Odessa before World War One and in the aftermath of the infamous Kishinev Pogrom he worked with fellow Jewish leaders there. He later organized the Haganah self defense unit in Jerusalem after World War One. In the years before World War Two he crisscrossed Europe again and again urging young Jews to learn self-defense and prepare to defend the Jewish community. Some of those Jews listened and joined in the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, fought with the Bielski partisans, and rescued Jews from Nazi Occupied Europe. Even before World War Two Jabotinsky pleaded with young Jews to make aliyah, that is to immigrate to the Land Of Israel, and save themselves.
“That this violent attack was launched just days before the Yom HaShoah memorial to the Holocaust is no coincidence,” said Phillips. “The only answer to such lone wolf attackers is a dual program of stronger security and stronger Jewish Unity.” Herut North America – The Jabotinsky Movement, urges all Jews to remain vigilant and keep security top of mind.
The words of Jabotinsky written when he memorialized the great Zionist hero and fighter Yosef Trumpeldor who died with a weapon in hand as he defended fellow Jews in the Galilee at Tel Chai in 1920, come to mind at this time: “Tolstoy and Gandhi [said] that turning the other cheek influences the worst enemy more than a strong hand. This is a nice and delicate theory, buy this does not mean that it is true. The best proof of this lies before our very eyes and is called the history of the Galut (i.e. Diaspora, Exile). We Jews have tried it. Not only have we tried, but we have systematically carried it out with superhuman patience in the course of many generations… Trumpeldor was the leader of Jews capable of defending themselves.”
Herut North America, is a twenty year old international movement for Zionist pride and education and more about Herut can be found here: https://herutna.org/.