This is a diverse congregation with many views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.  However, we know we are united in a few strong feelings and beliefs:

• Israel has a right to exist and defend itself.  We all pray for Israel to be able to successfully end this war and return all hostages safely.

• Terrorism has no place in the world today and this absolutely qualifies as terrorism.

• Attacks on civilians of any kind are never justified.

• Our thoughts dwell on the safety of the people we know and love in Israel.  We know of one Temple Shalom congregant in Israel at this time as well as our previous Rabbi, Lori Cohen.  Thank G-d, they are safe for now.  We know that many others of us have friends and family whose lives are now in peril.

• The chance that this war escalates and that other opponents of Israel join in is a definite concern.  For the sake of Israel’s future and world peace more generally, we all pray that this ends quickly without an increase in scope.

Once this is over, there will be mourning for those lost, questions about how this surprise could happen, who else aided Hamas, and how we can finally work towards peace for all in the region.  But, today, we just worry for our extended Jewish family in Israel including any of our immediate families.  We all pray that Israel is able to end this war swiftly, decisively, and proportionately and that we will see peace one day soon.

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As Temple Shalom resumes in-person services this week The Board, along with the Ritual Committee have reviewed COVID-safety protocols. Although the province has renounced its mask policy Temple Shalom will be taking a more gradual approach based on generally accepted scientific best practices. Please note the changes below:

1) All participants attending Temple Shalom are asked to wear a mask. Surgical masks will be provided on the table at the entrance of the foyer for those who need one.
2) Please follow public health protocols: wear a mask, sanitize your hands, and keep physically distanced at 6 feet apart.
3) Anyone aged 18 or over needs to have had at least 2 COVID vaccines.
4) Members of the congregation are no longer required to complete the provincial self-screening assessment or to provide personal information for contact tracing. Guests are welcome! All guests should leave their contact information with August upon entrance.
5) Anyone speaking/singing at the bimah is welcomed to take their mask off, as long as they can maintain a 6-foot distance from others. This assists those who have found it difficult to understand speakers who are masked.

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