As a member of the Chico Area Interfaith Council (CAIC), CBI is participating in a movement to remember the unsheltered people who died on the streets of Chico this past year. For one week, different faith communities throughout Chico will display a large banner listing their names. In addition, there is a small white flag, memorializing each person. This week is our turn. If you drive by the synagogue, you’ll see this important remembrance prominently displayed on the front lawn of CBI.
It is important to lift up their names, bringing honor and dignity to each person who died. We are all made b’tzelem Elohim, in the image of God. As Jews, it is our obligation to sanctify life. We send prayers for comfort, and peace of mind to all the friends and family impacted by these losses.
We send a shout out to Pastor Benjamin Colahan of Faith Lutheran Church for spearheading this initiative. It is an honor to partner with other faith communities around issues that connect us as a human community.
May we have the courage and stamina to create a just society--one where all are protected and cared for, especially those living on the margins. Amen.
