Every Friday night before Kaddish we read the names of the American soldiers who were killed in Iraq between this Shabbat and the last. We also recall the number of Iraqi civilians who have been killed that month. We believe it is important for us as a community not to forget the struggle of our soldiers in a frightening, far away place, and until the end of this war and beyond, we will not forget them. Below please find a letter we sent to the Army Reserves offices in Los Angeles. We were able to help a family afford the tickets to visit their father at his army base before he was sent over seas for over a year.

Dearest most beloved families ~

We extend our deepest blessings to you. While your loved ones are away, we pray for their safe return and our hearts open to you as you wait, the worried families and heavy homes where absences are most profound.

As drama unfolds overseas, we realize that locally in the homes of our own dear neighbors, there is a more private and no less noble struggle unfolding as well: the struggle to soothe the nightmares of terrified children; the struggle to sustain fatigued and anxious spouses; the struggle to dignify families who find themselves suddenly awaiting welfare; the struggle to pay bills when the main income is abruptly interrupted; the struggle to find friendship and support emotionally, spiritually and physically, from basic necessities as diapers and groceries to necessary distractions as picnics and children's games. This quiet, painful struggle is not forgotten.

Our Temple Isaiah congregation opens its heart in friendship and honor to you, the sacred families that hold down the fort. In this day, let us be as one family, taking gentle care of one another. Please allow us to help in these difficult times. We salute you beloved families, embrace you, and offer our hand to you.

You may contact our Temple President, Randy Schwab, at randyschwab@earthlink.net, our Vice President of Community Affairs, Honey Amado, at hkaatty@earthlink.net, Rabbi Zoe Klein at Rabbiz@templeisaiah.com, or phone us at 310-277-2772.

We hope you will not hesitate to contact us and request any needs. Your request will be kept in complete confidence as you wish.