Chabad Lubavitch of Michigan

ב”ה

3/13/2026

Statement from Chabad-Lubavitch of Michigan

Chabad-Lubavitch of Michigan is deeply shocked and saddened by the violent attack that took place at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield. This was an attack against all Jews and the entire Jewish community. We are one people, brothers and sisters, and when any part of our people is targeted, we all feel it.

Our hearts and minds are with all those who were present in the building and experienced such frightening moments.

We are profoundly grateful to the Almighty for the open miracles that we witnessed today. With so many children and members of the community present, it is a tremendous blessing that all those in the building were spared from harm. We also extend our prayers for a full and speedy recovery to the synagogue’s security director who was injured while courageously protecting others.

The Lubavitcher Rebbe taught that the Jewish response to darkness is not retreat, but the strengthening of light. As Jews, we stand resilient and proud of our identity. Moments like these call upon all of us to come together, strengthen our faith and unity, and increase acts of goodness and kindness. The Rebbe often emphasized that even a small amount of light can dispel a great deal of darkness, and therefore our response must always be to increase light in the world. By deepening our connection to Judaism, performing mitzvot, and sharing that light with others, we ensure that goodness prevails.

As we approach the holiday of Passover, the festival of freedom and the birth of our nation, Chabad-Lubavitch of Michigan encourages the community to respond in a positive and meaningful way. This year especially, we should ensure that every Jew has the opportunity to celebrate the Seder and partake of handmade Shemurah matzah, so that all can experience the message of freedom and Jewish pride.

May this Passover usher in a time of true freedom, peace, and harmony for the Jewish people everywhere, our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land and throughout the world, and for all humanity, with the coming of Mashiach speedily in our days.

Please reach out to any of the Chabad centers listed below to arrange a place at a Passover Seder or to receive handmade Shmurah Matzah for the holiday. Our Chabad centers across Michigan are here to help every Jew celebrate Passover in a meaningful and welcoming way.

Rabbi Kasriel Shemtov
Executive Director
Chabad-Lubavitch of Michigan