To the editor:

I attended the Shabbat (sabbath) service at Congregation Kol Shalom of Bainbridge Island the Saturday after the shootings at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. This service was also attended by a large number of Bainbridge Island residents.

The service led by Rabbi Paul Strasko was our regular Shabbat service that had prayers in remembrance of the dead and for the survivors, a celebration of life, and a Torah service.

I thank the congregation members, the community members of all religious denominations, the clergy from several denominations, our U.S. and Washington state elected officials, and the Bainbridge Island Police Department, for their show of support. I am grateful for the outpouring.

The presence of so many community residents at this service can only help to reduce the occurrence of hideous crimes against all groups.

On this Saturday that I write this letter I extend to you a Shabbat Shalom, a Peaceful Sabbath, on this week of Thanksgiving as we anticipate our respective holidays.

I thank you.

ROBERT HERSHBERG

Bainbridge Island