Rabbi Weill's Blog

Dear Friends,

It may have been the largest gathering of Jews in American history, or perhaps in modern times, or perhaps ever. Either way, the rally in Washington, D.C., in support of Israel this Tuesday was huge in size and mammoth in impact for the 290,000 who attended, as well as for those who turned in via live stream.   

I was there along with EHNT president, Judge Shelley Sutker Dermer, and a few other members of our community. I also showed up 36 years ago, to the very same spot, for the rally in support of Soviet Jewry. This week's grand gathering was bigger by around 50,000. 

The event was by turns poignant and empowering. It was poignant for the sadness of brutal terrorist mass murder and for the concern for the 240 hostages held by those terrorists. And it was empowering for the experience of standing shoulder to shoulder (literally) with fellow Jews from around America.

It was not an easy day. I woke before 3:15 a.m. and did not return home until midnight. But it was a good day.

We will share more about our experience in Washington -- and answer some questions -- during services this Shabbat morning. I hope to see you then. (If you have been thinking about attending services, this would be a good time to do so!) 

Peace and Strength,

Rabbi Jeffrey Weill

November 16, 2023