During my time working at the JCC, I have witnessed firsthand something extraordinary about the human spirit and how it gives us the capacity to remember life’s deepest losses without allowing them to define our future. It teaches us to honor what has been broken while finding the courage to rebuild. Not simply restoring what once was, but creating something stronger, more compassionate, and more connected than before.
This past Thursday, the Jewish community observed Tisha B’Av, Judaism’s annual day of remembrance for the tragedies that have shaped our people, most notably the destruction of the first and second temples in Jerusalem approximately 2,000 years ago. But this solemn holiday also reminds us that the purpose of memory is not to keep us rooted in grief. Rather, it is to inspire us toward action. We are called to rebuild not only walls and institutions, but the relationships that sustain us and to counter indifference and division with acts of loving kindness that strengthen our communities.
Earlier this week, Barak Hermann, President and CEO of the JCC Association of North America, shared a reflection with leaders across the JCC Movement that beautifully captures this timeless message. His words remind us that the true work of Tisha B’Av is not simply remembering what was lost but embracing our shared responsibility to build a stronger Jewish future – together.
As we gather, we are approaching Tisha B’Av – one of the most solemn days on the Jewish calendar. It is a day when we remember destruction, loss, exile and the painful moments in our people’s history.
But Tisha B’Av is not only about what was destroyed. It is also about what we are called to rebuild.
Our tradition teaches that the Second Temple was destroyed, in part, because of sinat chinam – baseless hatred and division within our own community. That message feels especially relevant for those of us entrusted with leading Jewish life today.
Through our JCCs and JCC Camps, we have the privilege and responsibility to do the opposite: To create belonging, strengthen connection, welcome difference, and build communities rooted in dignity, purpose, and hope. So, as we begin today, may Tisha B’Av remind us not only of what we have lost, but of what we can build together – with courage, with humility, and with faith in the Jewish future.
Wishing you and your families a Shabbat shalom,
Jason
