Everyone has their own connection (or lack thereof) to religion, especially within the Jewish community. As the country navigates trying times, including political strife, societal divisions, inequity, and further challenges, individuals may search for stability in their communities. Myself and my connection to the Jewish community is no exception as I’ve found myself growing ever closer to my faith.
This isn’t the first time in recent history that I, and many other Jewish people, have found themselves strengthening their connection to Judaism. After the horrific events of October 7, 2023, and the ensuing conflict in the Middle East caused a stark increase in antisemitism on American college campuses, large numbers of Jewish students became closer to Judaism. In times of anxiety, negativity, and widespread hate, the people targeted by these phenomena want familiarity and peace.
In very recent history, wildfires engulfed many parts of Greater Los Angeles, tragically causing the deaths of some and ruining the lives of tens of thousands of others. At UCLA, the fire, Baruch Hashem, did not reach our campus. However, it got close enough to threaten it and the health and safety of the UCLA community[1]. Over 13,000[1] students left campus, fearing the conflagration seen from dorm room windows would reach them.
I was one of these students, and I was fortunate enough to be blessed with family with whom I could stay for over a week in San Francisco, California. While I was there, I watched the news, hoping and praying that our community would hurt no longer. It happened to be that I arrived in San Francisco right before Shabbat when I would’ve been enjoying the day of rest with my friends at Hillel at UCLA. Not being able to participate in such an integral part of my life left me yearning for community. I then discovered Congregation Sherith Yisrael in the Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco. I realized then that what I needed most was Judaism and my faith.
For the week and a half that I was in San Francisco, I went to this congregation for two Shabbat services. Each time, I was welcomed with open arms, and the members of the congregation told me that they’d do anything at all to help me during this time. Many of them had family and friends who lived in Los Angeles, and I deeply felt the sincerity and warmth of their words.
It is difficult to explain the relief that I felt hearing such kindness and camaraderie at that time, but I’d say it demonstrates how strong the Jewish community is. Whether it’s the aftermath of a horrific attack on the Jewish homeland or a tragic conflagration much closer to home, Judaism was there for me as it was for many others. As humans, we need community in troubling times, and I continue to be both amazed and grateful that I am part of such a strong one as that of the Jewish people.
[1] https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-01-12/ucla-students-evacuate-campus
Cover image taken by author
