I sent this email to my congregation:

Dearest Chaverim,

Our congregation does not normally communicate on Shabbat. This is not a normal moment. 

On Shabbat and a festival day on our Jewish calendar and on the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War on the Gregorian calendar, Israel was drawn into war to defend its citizens. Hamas terrorists launched thousands of rockets and infiltrated into Israel murdering, kidnapping, and injuring countless numbers of people. Thousands of our siblings are in bomb shelters and thousands more are serving or preparing to enter into duty with the Israel Defense Forces to protect and defend our homeland. Temple Beth Shalom unequivocally stands with the people of Israel.  

I am in touch with the families of our students in Israel participating in URJ’s Heller High who were in Jerusalem for Shabbat, they are safe. In addition, many of us have family and friends in Israel and we pray for them. Here in Austin we are in touch with our community partners on Dell JCC campus and our region to provide for our safety and security. 

Please stay informed as this situation continues to unfold. Please pray for peace in your own words or with these from our prayer book:

O Heavenly One, Protector and Redeemer of Israel, bless the State of Israel which marks the dawning of hope for all who seek peace. Shield it beneath the wings of Your love; spread over it the canopy of Your peace; send Your light and truth to all who lead and advise, guiding them with Your good counsel. Establish peace in the land and fullness of joy for all who dwell there.

May the One who makes peace in the heights of heaven, bring peace quickly and speedily to Israel.