Rabbi Blog

Dear QJC Family,

We are very excited for our special Shabbos with Dr. Henry Abramson and the wonderful programming we will have.

You may have heard that there are rumors that extremists are planning a "Day of Hate" against Jews this coming Shabbos throughout the country. There are conflicting accounts as to the authenticity of this threat. Nevertheless, Rav Soloveitchik zt"l taught that the miracle of Purim is that when Haman made a threat, the Jews believed him and took action. While we certainly hope this is in fact fake, we should take this threat seriously.

To be clear, the threats put forth have to do with propaganda and protesting. There is no credible concern of violence in shuls and there have not been any calls to refrain from attending shul altogether.
 
But in light of the concerns for this weekend, please be advised that additional protection has been secured from NYPD Paid Detail for both Friday night due to the Scholars in Residence Program, Shabbat morning, and Shabbat late afternoon and evening. We ask all congregants to use the security code on the 66th Avenue door, and be sure the door closes securely behind you. Do not stand with the door propped open and do not hold the door open for someone you do not know. Please do not congregate outside the shul and do not use the front doors on 108th Street. 

Please be aware of anything that may look suspicious and alert me, the shul administration, Mario, or Lorraine if you see anything concerning.

Finally, if you see someone on the streets demonstrating hate, please do not confront or engage with them.

With everyone's help, and G-d willing, all will be safe and secure.

May we hear Besoros Tovos.

Shabbat shalom.

Judah Kerbel
​​​​​​​Rabbi, Queens Jewish Center