Praying For Law Enforcement in Difficult Times

One of the Divine names that we frequently encounter in Rabbinic and Liturgical writing is Shomer Yisrael  - “Protector of Israel.”  Envisioning God as a protecting shield brings us a sense of comfort as we acknowledge the daily challenges of our lives.  This is an important aspect of embracing both our spirituality and tradition.  But, as we know all too well, we cannot rely exclusively on God’s presence to ensure our safety.  We are fortunate that we live in a Democratic society that has a system of laws along with brave law enforcement personnel who serve and protect us every day – often risking their lives in the process. 

Over the past several weeks, the dangers faced by the men and women of law enforcement in the State of Colorado have come sharply into focus.  Three police officers have died in the line of duty and many others have been wounded.  It is hard not to be moved by the outpouring of grief and support that the families of the dead and wounded have received.  There have been too many flags flying at half-mast over official offices and residences.  It is vitally important that we, as a sacred community, also take the time to reflect and show our support and appreciation for law enforcement agencies and personnel.

This Friday night, at our 6:00 PM Erev Shabbat Service, we will be paying tribute to the men and women who serve in law enforcement.  I have asked Rabbi Steven Kaye – a member of our congregation and a long-time Chaplain on the Denver Police Force – to speak from the pulpit about the holy work that he, his fellow Chaplains and members of our police force perform on a daily basis.  We will offer prayers for their safety and show our solidarity with those who are mourning and those who work on our behalf.

Contributions in memory of Deputy Zack Parrish can be made to the Douglas County Fallen Officer Fund for Deputy Parrish’s family.
Checks should include his name Zack Parrish.
http://www.dcsheriff.net/fallen-officer- fund/

Donations can be made to support Deputy Heath Gumm
at the Colorado Peace Officers Foundation. The direct link is listed below.
www.coloradopolicefoundation.org/deputy-heath- gumm-donation

Note that the Colorado Police Officers' Foundation was founded in
1997 and is a charitable corporation that operates under the
501 (c)(3) provisions of the federal tax code. This official designation granted by the IRS conveys tax-exempt status to the foundation and specifically allows contributions to be tax deductible.
Your donations qualify for the maximum tax deduction.

Contributions to help Deputy Flick's family should go to
El Paso County Sheriffs Foundation
1980 Dominion Way Ste 200, Colorado Springs, Co 80918

A prayer:

Shomer Yisrael – Protector of Israel.

Shomer kol Adam – Protector of All Humanity.

We ask your blessing and protection upon the brave men and women of law enforcement who risk their lives on a daily basis to enforce the laws of our nation.  We give thanks for the courage of their convictions.  Bless their holy work.  Heal their wounded hearts.  May no more harm come upon them as they perform the often thankless tasks of ensuring our safety.  Guide them as they live out the courage of their convictions and serve and protect us.  Grant them wisdom, perspective and the fortitude to make difficult decisions.  May their families and loved ones find comfort in the knowledge that they are not alone in their prayers.  Help us all as we work together to bring peace to a troubled world.  And let us say:  AMEN