“A Bullet in the Soul of America”

By COLlive reporter

This past Monday, over 300 people, Jews and non-Jews alike, gathered together at the Chabad at Short Hills – Center for Jewish Life for a ‘Peace & Unity Gathering’ in response to the Chabad of Poway Attack.

In attendance were fellow local Shluchim, dignitaries, representatives from the various townships and State officials.

The evening began with welcoming remarks and words of consolation from Rabbi Mendel Solomon, Shliach to Short Hills/Millburn, and continued with the recitation of Tehillim by Rabbi Zalman Grossbaum, Director of Chabad of Livingston, and the lighting of a memorial candle by a student of the Chabad at Short Hills Hebrew School.

Rabbi Y.Y. Jacobson, the world-renowned inspirational speaker, addressed the crowd offering words of comfort and encouragement. Sharing personal anecdotes, and a powerful heartfelt timeless message of Jewish strength and resolve, Rabbi Jacobson touched the hearts of all those who listened.

The night ended with the singing of Ani Maamin by Rabbi Shalom Lubin, Shliach of South East Morris County, and Rabbi Mendy Kasowitz, Shliach in West Orange, an appeal to give Tzedakah that will be given directly to those affected by the attack, and a request to sign a booklet that will be sent to the family of Lori Gilbert-Kaye.

Many members of the community shared their gratitude for this cathartic evening.

“This inspiration and unity are exactly what our communities needed. We all left that night feeling empowered in our identity and strengthened in our Judaism,” Rabbi Solomon shared after the event.

VIDEO: Rabbi YY Jacobson Speech