We want the first Shabbat in the new building to be filled with prayer, song, and joy — not anxious glances at the door, and not questions about whether we did enough. To be candid, the security measures we need are expensive — bulletproof glass windows, armed guards during our busiest days, training, access controls, reinforced entry points, cameras, communication systems, and ongoing maintenance. Although we had planned carefully and the cost was part of the original building budget, expenses for our security needs have exceeded our allocated security budget. So now we need to supplement with a Security Fund.

In the Torah, when the Mishkan was built, the command was to bring gifts “from everyone whose heart moves them.” Our task is the same. Some can underwrite a major piece of this security plan. Many can make meaningful, smaller pledges. All of us can participate. If you have never given, tonight is the night to start. If you give every year, please consider an additional gift for this appeal — because this is the year it directly safeguards our children and our future. Thank you and G'mar Tov. - the JHJC Board