OUR HIGHEST VALUES

In an overflowing sanctuary at English Lutheran Church early Sunday evening in La Crosse, Wisconsin 6+ faiths convened not only to share scripture and musical selections but to also receive comfort during the interfaith prayer vigil. 

Yes, the most recent anti-semitic attack was impetus but the evening encompassed the loss of lives through senseless hate crimes, not just Pittsburgh's recent Tree of Life congregation's loss of 11 jewish lives. As La Crosse's Rabbi pointed out, the interfaith prayer vigil reflected the jewish mourning period of Shiva which really is for the guests who attend to receive comfort rather than the bereaved.

We recited the Charge to Action below:

With election day upon us this Tuesday the line " To vote  according to our highest values instead of our own self interest" hopefully will ring loud and clear.

May we aspire for the time to not be distant oh Lord when we will  be neither the bereaved nor 'guests' of hate crimes towards Jews, Muslims, Blacks, Latinos, LGBTQs, Native Americans, Physically Disabled/ Asylum Seekers ...   

The gathering ended as candles were lit and a 5 block processional in the rain led to the synagogue steps where the jewish memorial prayer was recited.

Shalom. Salam. Peace.

LOCAL FAITH LEADERS