“We, the Chabad-Lubavitch worldwide community, are outraged by the murder and maiming of Jews who who were attacked in cold blood when they came to pray on Yom Kippur,” said Rabbi Yehuda Krinsky, Chairman of Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch and Machne Israel. “Our profound condolences to the families of the victims who begin the New Year with such heartbreak.”
The attack at the Heaton Park Shul early Thursday morning leaves the international Jewish community horrified by yet another antisemitic, terrorist attack. “We are appalled that Jews have become so vulnerable to this evil malaise, and want to see authorities in the UK and everywhere else step up their intervention to deter this wanton violence,” Krinsky added.
The tragedy could have been worse but for the bravery of congregants and the synagogue’s security team who rushed with Rabbi Daniel Walker of Heaton Park Shul, a Chabad-Lubavitch representative, to barricade the doors of the synagogue. After the synagogue premises were evacuated, the Rabbi continued the Yom Kippur services with congregants in alternative premises.
“We will recover. We will rebuild. The terrorist will not succeed in destroying our community,” said Rabbi Daniel Walker. “We didn’t let the terrorist stop us from praying — and I ask everyone who can do so to please go to shul this Shabbat.”
“The only response to darkness is light. I ask people to increase in mitzvot, in studying Torah. Today, before Shabbat begins, give some charity and light Shabbat candles before sunset,” Walker said.
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