Dear Congregation Ner Tamid Community,
As we reflect on the vicious attack at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, we recognize the importance of heightened security in the face of rising anti-semitism. The presence of multiple security guards and enhanced protocols prevented this attack from becoming a tragedy.
Since the attacks of October 7, we have heightened our security in many ways:
• A security guard is present all times that anyone is on our campus, with two guards being present for Shabbat Services
• We have increased police and security presence at major events
• The gate system has been updated and remains closed with monitored access
• Additional security cameras have been installed on campus
• Metal detectors have been incorporated into our security protocols
• Each internal door has been equipped with an emergency door stop
Temple Israel’s attack demonstrates the need for multiple security guards at all times. But, as this article published in the New York Times notes, these security costs are pushing our budget to its limits. The security fees we currently collect barely cover one-third of our security costs, even before considering the cost of adding an additional security guard.
What can you do to help?
In an effort to ensure the effectiveness of our security protocols, we invite you to participate in The CNT Magen HaYom (Shield of the Day) Sponsorship. This new program will help to maintain the safety of our campus and community. The cost of a single security guard per day is almost $400.
For $360, you can sponsor the cost of a security guard for a day at CNT. At the beginning of each Friday Night Shabbat Service, we will proudly announce who sponsored the guards during that week (unless you wish to remain anonymous).
We hope that becoming a Magen HaYom provides everyone with the opportunity to help protect our beloved congregation. Our goal is to preserve a safe place for us to gather and worship as proud Jews. We will not be stopped by terrorism, but we need your help.
To sign up for the CNT Magen HaYom Sponsorship, please click here.
If you have the means, you can also make a larger donation by clicking here and donating directly to our security fund.
Let’s work together to keep Congregation Ner Tamid safe, while also ensuring our financial stability.
With immense gratitude, Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi-Cantor Jessica Hutchings
Michael Levy, President
