Community at Temple Israel
Rabbi’s Message -June 11, 2026
This Friday evening, Temple Israel will celebrate Pride Shabbat.
Pride Month is often a time of celebration, but for many in the LGBTQ+ community, this year is also a time of uncertainty. Across the country, laws and policies affecting LGBTQ+ individuals continue to change, creating real concerns for many people and families about their rights, safety, and future.
As Jews, we are no strangers to conversations about belonging, vulnerability, and what it means to live authentically in a world that does not always make space for difference. Our tradition does not ask us to turn away from difficult realities. Instead, it invites us to engage them through the lens of Torah, bringing wisdom, compassion, and moral reflection to the challenges of our time.
We are grateful that Jesper Beckholt will offer this week’s D’var Torah. Drawing on the Torah portion and Jewish tradition, Jesper will reflect on some of the experiences and concerns facing the queer community today and explore what our sacred texts might teach us in response.
Pride Shabbat is an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of our community, to listen deeply to one another’s stories, and to reaffirm our commitment to seeing the divine image in every human being.
We invite you to join us for worship and encourage you to wear Pride colors as we welcome Shabbat together.