Praying for Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, TX

CMI Family,

With a heavy heart we are watching the unfolding hostage situation at Congregation Beth Israel, in Colleyville TX. Their Shabbat morning worship today was interrupted by an individual who has taken four people hostage, including Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker. Fortunately one of those hostages was recently released.

We pray for the safety of the rabbi and those held hostage, the first responders, and entire community of Congregation Beth Israel.

The local Muslim community with whom the rabbi had built a relationship immediately condemned this tragic event along with the Council on American–Islamic Relations (CAIR). One of the first people who reached out to us was our friend and Yale Muslim Chaplain Omer Bajwa, who encouraged his community to pray for a peaceful resolution. The relationships we build with other faith communities, as demonstrated during last night's MLK service, are essential to building a more peaceful world.

Secure Community Network, who advises CMI and other Jewish organizations on security, and the ADL are working together along with local, state and federal law enforcement partners. This incident appears to be local and isolated; however, both organizations continue to monitor this ongoing situation.

During our program honoring Dr. King this evening we ended with the prayer below for those held captive. 

May there be a peaceful end to this horrific situation.

Rabbi Brian P. Immerman
Rabbi Herbert N. Brockman
Michael Dimenstein, President

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A Prayer for the Redemption of the Captive
by Rabbi Ofer Sabath Beit Halachmi, adapted from a prayer written for captive IDF soldiers.

Our God, the One who raised Joseph up from the pit,
be “a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.” (Psalm 9:10)
Send complete rescue and full redemption to those held captive.
Strengthen their spirit and bring them our prayers that they be protected from all harm.
Implant understanding in the heart of the enemy that they may return the captives in wholeness of body and spirit.
Grant wisdom to the security forces that they may secure freedom for the captives without loss of life.
Grant strength of spirit and courage of heart to all the sons and daughters of Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar to release bonds of captivity and allow us all to live in safety and freedom.
“They shall call upon Me, and I will answer them; I will be with them in distress; I will rescue them, and honor them.”
(after Psalm 91:15)