Discussion About the Crisis in Israel and Gaza

September 11, 2025, 7:30 pm
Beth El Temple
2637 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110

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As we approach the second anniversary of the October 7 attacks on Israel, the situation in the region remains dire. Hostages kidnapped from Israel continue to be held under horrific conditions for an unfathomable number of days, and we pray daily for their return. There is also a widespread humanitarian crisis among civilians in Gaza, including mass starvation and poor sanitation. We pray for an end to this crisis too.

In recent weeks, major Jewish organizations have issued statements in response to this crisis. Our own Conservative movement issued this statement from the Rabbinical Assembly (the umbrella organization of Conservative rabbis) in late July, and the President of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism issued this statement in early August.

At Beth El Temple, we recognize that it can be difficult for us as Jews to process what is happening in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank, particularly in an environment of growing antisemitism and antagonism towards Israel. To this end, we will be holding two discussion spaces for people to process their personal feelings in a safe and supportive way, and to talk about how we might respond to this crisis as individuals and as a community.

The first conversation will be held on September 11 in person at Beth El Temple and will be moderated by Rabbi Capptauber and Meg Shoeman.  Please RSVP to amy@bethelhbg.org.