Dear Friends,
As Shabbos approaches, our hearts are heavy with the devastation and tragedy we’ve witnessed over the past few days. The fires sweeping across Los Angeles have displaced families, destroyed homes, businesses, and houses of worship, and most heartbreakingly, claimed lives. For the bereaved families, Who By Fire is not just a piece of liturgy or a Leonard Cohen song—it is their reality.
This is an opportunity to reach out to friends or family you may know in affected areas. Even just a simple call, in addition to other ways of support, can let them know we are here for them. Let us also extend our deepest gratitude to the firefighters and all those risking everything to save lives and protect others.
Among the many heartbreaking losses, the Pasadena Jewish Temple was completely consumed by flames. Yet, even amidst the ashes, there were powerful moments of courage and faith. Community members risked everything to save the temple’s 13 Torah scrolls. Another powerful image was my dear colleague, Rabbi Chaim Hanoka, carrying salvaged Torahs back into the Chabad House of Pasadena. He was surrounded by a van filled with food and supplies for evacuees. The message was clear: though we have been burned, we will not allow our fire to consume us.
On Sunday, we start reading the Torah portion, which reminds us of resilience. Moses encounters a burning bush—a fire that burns but does not consume. This profound symbol speaks to us now: we must continue to move forward.
The year 2024 tested us all. We stumbled and fell, yet we rose again. We mourned, but we also found moments to sing. This is the resilience we must carry as we look ahead to a brighter 2025.
As we complete this week’s Torah portion—the final portion in Genesis—the congregation traditionally calls out in unison: Chazak, chazak, v’nitchazek—Be strong, be strong, and let us strengthen one another.
No words better express our wish for California, for the Jewish people, and for every one of us. Be strong. Be strong. Let us strengthen one another.
Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos