Dear Friends,
It is a difficult time for our people. In just the past two weeks, two violent attacks have targeted members of the Jewish community. These are not isolated incidents. They come after months of ugly rhetoric and a growing normalization of Jew hatred. They come amid a growing and deeply troubling effort—both in America and on the international stage—to marginalize Jews and to delegitimize Israel’s right to exist.
Understandably, some of you have reached out to my colleagues and me this week, looking for reassurance, for perspective, and for hope. Rather than focusing on the painful details of these incidents—details we all know too well—I want to offer something else. Two points of light that I believe can help illuminate the path forward.
First, the results of the World Zionist Congress Elections were just announced. If you’re still not familiar with the WZC, here’s a quick explanation: the World Zionist Congress is a global forum, first convened by Theodor Herzl in 1897, where Jews from around the world come together to shape priorities for the global Zionist movement. These priorities impact how hundreds of millions of dollars are allocated—funds that support education, religious life, and community development in Israel and around the world.
Every few years, Jews in the Diaspora have the chance to vote for delegates who represent their values. Thanks to the tireless efforts of Liz Parry, Barbara Schwartz, and Debbie Green-Taffet here in our TSTI community, the Reform Movement once again won the overwhelming majority of votes in North America.
As a recent email from ARZA, the Reform Movement’s Zionist Organization, noted,
“Our slate received more votes than any of the 22 slates by a wide margin. We got the largest number of votes in the history of the WZC— and we did so by running a fair, honorable campaign and holding up our Reform Jewish values.”
This is more than a symbolic victory. It’s a powerful affirmation of our commitment to pluralism, equality, and religious freedom in Israel—and a direct investment in making that vision real. In a time when our values are being challenged, this win is a reminder that we are not powerless. We have a voice. And we used it.
I am grateful to each of you who voted and made your voice heard. May we continue to do so.
Second, something extraordinary happened last week right here at TSTI. During services, our graduating Hebrew High students spoke to the congregation. One by one, they offered reflections on their Jewish journeys. Their words were wise, heartfelt, deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, and powerfully personal. They moved everyone in the sanctuary to tears.
The full video is long, but their words are worth your time. As you watch, please remember this: these remarkable students have found meaning, comfort, connection, and strength through their experiences in Hebrew High—and through the larger TSTI community. That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because of your support. Every member of this congregation helps make these programs possible. Every household contributes to shaping the Jewish future.
So I want to end with this: In the face of fear, we respond with faith. In the face of hatred, we respond with hope. And in the face of marginalization, we respond by building stronger, more vibrant Jewish communities—here and in Israel.
Thank you for your continued commitment to that sacred work. Thank you for your strength. And thank you for being a source of light in a time that so desperately needs it.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Daniel Cohen
Bonus Video: A few weeks ago we held our Confirmation Service. Our confirmands were equally wise and uplifting.