As the Jewish year ends and we prepare to welcome 5786, we reflect not only on the challenges we have endured but also on the resilience that carried us forward. This past year was not easy. We faced resurgent antisemitism at home and abroad, security concerns that left families and institutions on edge, wrenching debates over Israel and the war in Gaza, hostages still held in captivity, unrest on college campuses and a political climate that too often pitted us against one another. Yet across Jewish life we also witnessed extraordinary courage, creativity and commitment.
The fight against antisemitism remains central. But the story of the past year is not only about danger. It is also about how communities mobilized, expanded security initiatives and strengthened cooperation with law enforcement and civic leaders. More synagogues and schools than ever before received training, built protocols and applied for government grants. What once felt reactive now looks proactive — a sign that our community has turned pain into preparedness.
The war in Gaza, with its toll and its reverberations on campuses and in public debate, divided opinion and frayed bonds. Yet even in disagreement, we saw renewed urgency to learn, to listen and to speak with clarity. Painful though it has been, this moment deepened the seriousness with which Jews of all ages approach their relationship to Israel.
Communal involvement also surged. Volunteers rallied to support families under stress, new immigrants and those struggling with rising costs. Federations, JCCs and service agencies not only maintained programs but broadened them, offering counseling, job support, food assistance and new opportunities for engagement. Crises tested our strength; our response revealed our capacity.
Equally heartening was the flowering of Jewish learning and identity. From preschool classrooms to campus Chabads and Hillels, from adult study groups to intergenerational programming, participation grew. Educators reported increased curiosity, as many young people sought grounding in tradition and values. Even the digital space, once feared as a threat to in-person connection, became a platform for engagement. Thousands logged on to learn, to pray and to share in ritual.
None of this erases the challenges. We still struggle with ideological divides, political polarization and competing visions of what Jewish life should prioritize. Too often, we label those with whom we disagree as enemies rather than partners. The High Holy Days remind us we cannot afford that luxury. We may argue, even fiercely, but we remain bound together by history, faith and destiny.
What we share is greater than what divides us. Our tradition teaches that every Jew is responsible for one another. Responsibility does not mean uniformity; it means unity. It means making room for difference even as we join hands to secure our future.
As we look to 5786, the message is clear. We have work to do, strengthening security, nurturing identity, supporting Israel, protecting the vulnerable and building bridges. We can only succeed if we do it together.
May this new year bring health, strength and peace. May it bring wisdom to our leaders, courage to our people and compassion to our communities. And may we, as one people, meet the challenges ahead with faith and unity.
Shana Tova. ■