Stand For Israel At Long Beach Temple Features Several Faith Leaders

LONG BEACH, NY — Israeli flags were on display as Temple Emanu-El of Long Beach held a rally in support of Israel Wednesday night.

It was standing room only for the special program that featured speakers from the community. Long Beach Police Commissioner Ronald Walsh addressed concerns for Jewish residents amid the Israel-Hamas War. State Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick reflected on her recent trip to Israel and the fear that now fills those whom she just met.

Perhaps the strongest moments were when several religious leaders stood on the stage and each spoke powerfully about what happened to the Israelis.

"It's so important we get together and to learn how to support one another," Pastor Mark Moses of the New Life Church Of Christ, Disciples Of Christ in Long Beach, told Patch. "We only serve one God and when any of us are affected, we all are affected."

Approximately 200 people filled the pews of the synagogue, from the congregation and beyond.

The pastor said showing love for Israel also means being there for Jews targeted in the U.S.

"We're going to stand against the violence. We're going to stand against the anti-Semitism and all the hatred," Moses said. "We have the strongest power there is, which is the love of God."