As I write this, our nation is grieving with the community of Newtown, Connecticut, in the wake of the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary. So it makes sense that our thoughts turn to matters of safety and security here at our home, not only concerning our children but for all of us. Security matters take on a special urgency for the Jewish community, which has frequently been a target of bigots and extremists.

Shomrei Torah takes security issues very seriously. There are the obvious measures that all of us see, like the tall fence and steel gate enclosing our property, the police car parked outside of our High Holy Day services, and the shomer (guardian) posted at the driveway entrance during every religious school session. But there are other measures, as well, many of which are invisible to most members, which our Security Committee constantly reviews, enhances and, along with our staff, vigilantly enforces.

The Security Committee is led by Arnie Rosenfield, a retired Superior Court judge, and includes two law enforcement professionals and a social worker. They, along with the board and the staff, try to strike that delicate balance between keeping our synagogue and grounds secure while maintaining an open, accessible and welcoming environment for our members and guests.

I recently attended a meeting at a large Reform synagogue in San Francisco. To enter the campus, I had to speak with a full-time security guard at a check point manned around the clock, pass through a metal detector staffed by another officer, be buzzed in through a locked front door, and wear a “Visitor” badge on my lapel for the duration of my visit.

While these measures are no doubt required of a large and prominent institution in an urban setting, I was nevertheless saddened by them. The notion of being a member of a vulnerable population was never far from my consciousness.

I’m glad that Shomrei Torah is such a welcoming place, and while no facility can ever be made 100% secure from every possible threat, I am confident that our board of directors, our clergy and our staff are doing all that is reasonable and appropriate to keep our community safe.

Ultimately, our security depends on all of us. We must all look out for each other. If something doesn’t look quite right to you, if you perceive a threat of any kind, speak up. Keep in mind this slogan: “If you see something, say something.”

If you have any questions about synagogue security, I encourage you to call the office or contact me or a member of the board to share your concerns.

B’Shalom,

Bruce