Dear Temple Emanuel Members and Friends-
On behalf of the Temple Board of Trustees, I want to reflect on the 11 victims of the tragedy at Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh this past Saturday and let you know about plans to keep Temple Emanuel secure. May their souls be for a blessing. We also pray for a Refuah Shlema – a full recovery, for the congregants and brave law enforcement officers who were injured in the shooting.
Temple Emanuel immediately jumped into action to remember those who lost their lives, as well as support our congregants and community by hosting a Service of Unity and Remembrance which was held on October 28th. I am proud that our Temple Emanuel members, Polk County Jewish community, community leaders and friends came together in the spirit of unity to show that evil will be long surpassed by good deeds and acts.
Since the incident Rabbi Goldstein and I have received pledges from our local law enforcement authorities that they will do everything in their power to keep the Temple safe. We have participated in security calls sponsored by the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, in which members of the ADL, Secure Community Network, the FBI, and other groups focused on maintaining safety, security and well being for the Jewish community have assured us that this individual acted alone in the incident Saturday, and there is NOT an increased threat to the Jewish Community as a result of the incident.
With that being said, the Temple Emanuel board is taking this incident very seriously. Immediately after the incident we began working with the Sheriff’s Department to provide uniformed officers present at our Sunday School and they will be providing a deputy for our services on Friday nights and Saturday mornings. They will also continue providing coverage during Sunday School this week.
The Temple Executive Committee met yesterday and we will be reviewing our security plan for the Temple, and making needed upgrades, and training as recommended by law enforcement and security professionals.
I encourage everyone to please join the Temple Board in committing to strengthen our resolve to attend synagogue, services and maintain our Jewish identity both here in Lakeland, Polk County, and nationwide.
SOLIDARITY SHABBAT – STAND WITH PITTSBURGH
This Shabbat, Temple Emanuel is joining with United Synagogue, and the American Jewish communities to show our commitment for SOLIDARITY SABBATH, STAND WITH PITTSBURGH. Wherever you are this coming Shabbat, join in a service and stand with others in the community. We will be holding Friday evening services at 7:30 pm in our Education Building. Saturday Morning Shabbat services will begin at 9:30 am.
We invite our non-Jewish friends to please come and stand in solidarity with us. Please call the Temple office at (863) 682-8616 and let us know you will be joining us.
Shalom,
Allen Shane
President Temple Emanuel
