This holiday, The Ninth of Av (named like The Fourth of July) is an annual moment of support for our people who have been rendered disoriented by the events of their world. Destructions of the Jerusalem Temples, expulsions, pogroms and wars have all created lasting trauma for the People which is reflected in the experience of individuals. 

The beginning word of the Book of Lamentations is: איכה  – How can it be!?! If you look around your world and want to scream, “How can it be like this?!?” then perhaps you need to be with the rest of us asking the same question. 

It is a late gathering, in the quiet of the evening, to allow for contemplative energy.  We will read Lamentations, and some may even choose to assume the customary position of mourning and sit on the floor or on low cushions in the Greenberg Family Chapel. The ritual is not going to solve any of the problems of the world but it might send you home feeling supported by others who are also struggling. 

If you’d like to read more about the day and its customs, you can click here.