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Dear friends, Like many of you, Raina and I are deeply saddened by the devastating fires in Los Angeles. The images emerging from the city are heart-wrenching, and we are filled with worry, heartbreak, and a sense of helplessness. Regrettably, until the fires are contained, our options to assist are limited and, at least for me, they feel unsatisfying. However, there are some immediate action steps we can take: 1. The Jewish Federation of Los Angeles has established a resource page with information and a donation link. Please visit the page to explore ways to offer support. If you are able to contribute monetarily, know that 100% of your donation will be directed towards relief efforts. |
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2. Please keep those struggling in your prayers. As one of my meditations reminds us, “Prayer cannot bring water to parched land, nor mend a broken bridge, nor rebuild a ruined city. However, it can water an arid soul, mend a broken heart, and rebuild a weakened will.” Prayer does not materially alter a given situation, but especially during times of loss, knowing that others are thinking of us can provide the encouragement we need to persevere. With that in mind, I share these two prayers and encourage us all to offer them as Shabbat arrives this evening. A Blessing in the Face of Wildfires in Los Angeles by Rabbi Sandra Lawson Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Ruach HaOlam, Source of life and strength, who is with us in our struggles. May those who face destruction and loss find resilience and support. May the hands of firefighters and rescuers be steady and strong, bringing safety and hope amidst chaos. For the families forced to flee, may they find shelter and comfort. For the earth that burns, may healing rains fall swiftly. Blessed are You, Eternal One, who fills hearts with courage and communities with love, even in the darkest of times. Amen A Prayer for Victims of the Los Angeles Fires by Rabbi Naomi Levy God, our Rock and our Comfort Hear our prayer. Our hearts break for all those affected by the devastating fires in Los Angeles. Who have lost their homes in this devastating blaze? The victims are in shock, their lives shattered as their treasured possessions, beloved heirlooms, and touchstones for cherished memories were swept away in an instant. Their sense of place and home, their safety and stability, have been shaken. Oh, God, help us anchor them, shelter, support, and steady them with love as the numbness wears off and the enormity of the loss sets in. Be with them, God, be their strength and comfort, shield them from despair, and let them know You are near. Fill them with the courage they will need to begin again. Bless the firefighters and first responders, God, and watch over them as they risk their own lives to protect our beloved city. Work through us, God, transforming our helplessness into action, inspiring us with the determination and perseverance we will need to bring devastated neighborhoods back to life. Fill us all with the vision of the new days that lie ahead—a dream of our city restored. Let Jeremiah’s prophecy of hope enter every heart and soul: “The city shall be rebuilt upon its ruins!” So may it be, and let us say, Amen. |
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3. Let us know if we can be of support to you or to friends and family directly affected by this tragedy. |
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As Shabbat begins, we pray for the heroes battling these fires, for the safety of those whose homes have been engulfed by flames, and for the fortitude of those directly impacted to move forward. When the time comes, let us also pray for the strength to begin the painful process of rebuilding. Shabbat Shalom, |