With Rabbi Darby & Interim Cantorial Soloist Molly Bajgot
(In-person and Online)
On Friday night, March 13, we will join congregations across the country in observing HIAS’s Refugee Shabbat, lifting up our sacred obligation to welcome and protect immigrants and those seeking refuge. Partly inspired by the work of HIAS, and Kerem Shalom’s own Immigration Task Force, we will gather in the enduring Jewish spirit of welcoming the stranger, remembering that our history and our Torah call us to stand with those in search of safety and dignity.
This week’s Torah portion, Vayakhel–Pekudei, tells of the Israelites coming together to build the Mishkan, the sacred dwelling place in their midst. “Vayakhel” — and he gathered, and a reconstructionst approach to Judaism reminds us that holiness is created through community. Each person brought what they could: gifts of the heart, skilled hands, precious materials, and generous spirit. Sacred space was not built by one leader or committee alone, but by a community of people willing to show up together.
During the service, we will hear updates from Kerem Shalom’s Immigration Task Force about the meaningful work they have been doing to support the Afghan refugee families our community has embraced. Their efforts—offering practical assistance, friendship, advocacy, and care—reflect that same spirit of collective responsibility. We honor how much has already been accomplished, even as we acknowledge that the work of accompaniment and justice continues as the need increases exponentially.
This is an important moment to show up. At a time when the immigrant and refugee crisis can feel overwhelming, particularly in the face of increased national ICE activity, gathering for Shabbat reminds us that we do not carry these responsibilities alone. Like our ancestors building the Mishkan, we bring what we can—our resources, our compassion, our voices—and together we create something sacred.
Come celebrate Shabbat with us—to sing, to pray, to hear, to reflect, and to share a nosh together. May our gathering renew our spirits and reaffirm our commitment to supporting the work of HIAS, our Immigration Task Force, and the families who have entrusted us with their stories and their hopes.
Please join us. We look forward to being together.