“Indeed, even Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein of the Chabad of Poway revealed that the deadly attack could have been prevented had his synagogue been able to afford armed security guards.”
Every place of worship can afford off duty armed and uniformed law enforcement officers. It’s a choice. It’s a top priority. The price paid here was a life. Think about that when prioritizing where money is spent…
It has long been a Jewish tradition to embrace the stranger, but after Saturday’s shooting at a California synagogue, Jewish houses of worship appear to be putting hospitality aside in favor of security.
In the aftermath of two fatal synagogue attacks within a six-month span, more Jewish centers are locking their doors, stationing armed guards at their entrances and urging members to be wary of newcomers.
And some congregants — aiming to fight back — are flocking to gun ranges.
Saturday’s attack, in which a 19-year-old gunman opened fire at the Chabad of Poway synagogue, killing one and injuring three others, sent shock waves through the Jewish community. Six months ago, 11 people were killed in a similar attack at a Pittsburgh synagogue.
Other houses of worship have also been targeted: On Easter Sunday, more than 250 people were killed in bombings of churches in Sri Lanka, and 50 people were killed in an attack on two mosques in New Zealand on March 15.
by Deena Yellin
