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This week’s Torah portion, Terumah, invites us into a sacred act of creation and contribution. In preparing the materials for the portable sanctuary, our ancestors demonstrated that every offering, when given with heartfelt intention, became a building block for a dwelling of the Divine. These contributions were not just physical gifts; they were acts of love that transformed ordinary resources into a holy sanctuary—a tangible symbol of community, unity, and purpose.

In our modern context, we are reminded that the spirit of Terumah lives on in each act of compassion, and this week, we join with other congregations in highlighting our work with those seeking refuge in our country. Just as the ancient contributions created a space for spiritual presence and communal gathering, our support for refugees builds safe havens where healing, dignity, and hope can flourish. Whether through partnering with organizations offering shelter, advocating for rights, or simply extending a warm hand in friendship, our actions echo the sacred practice of giving, turning personal resources into a collective sanctuary for all.

This Shabbat, as with every Shabbat and every single day of the week, we are called to see every act of kindness as an opportunity to embody our Jewish values. By sharing what we have—our time, empathy, and strength—we construct not only physical spaces of refuge but also a deeper, more inclusive community. In doing so, we honor the legacy of Terumah, ensuring that every contribution, no matter how small, lights the way toward a world marked by justice, compassion, and solidarity.

May this Shabbat inspire us to build bridges of care and understanding, transforming our commitment to justice into a living, breathing testament of our faith.

Shabbat Shalom