SAN ANTONIO – Last week’s deadly attack at a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, continues to prompt other protests around the nation. Rabbis at a Jewish temple just north of downtown held a special Shabbat on Friday to take a stand against hatred.
The special theme at Temple Beth-El’s Shabbat was #bethelightforjustice. It was a message rabbis hoped would spread throughout social media.
“When people can scare you into not living your life or scare you into hiding or quiet, then they've won,” Rabbi Mara Nathan said.
Mayor Ron Nirenberg sat on the bimah and Councilman Roberto Trevino was front and center. Both officials were present in a show of support for the cause.
“I want you to know that I stand with you and my colleagues stand with you in a show of support for compassion and light,” Nirenberg said.
At the end of the service, the congregation came together to light candles, hoping the images of light will replace those of the tiki torches carried by white nationalists last weekend.
The members of the temple were determined to carry the message of equality with them.
“You’ve got to stand up now and start talking about it, because when is it going to affect you and who's going to be there to help you if you don’t stand up for somebody else and somebody else doesn’t stand up for somebody else,” said Bart Sherwood, a member of the temple.
Members of the congregation hope their support carries over to other communities.
