Letter: Chabad vandalism disturbs pastor

To the editor:

Rabbi Yossi Lipsker is a colleague. The people of his congregation worship in the building that once was the spiritual home for the people of the Congregational Church here in Swampscott. There is no doubt in my mind that things material can be repaired.

Further, there is no doubt in my mind that the soul and spirit of the human can be mended. Nevertheless, the reckless damage done to the synagogue and the vehicle belonging to the people of Chabad Lubavich during the past three weeks deeply disturbs me and the congregation that I serve.

As a neighbor and friend and as a community of faith that has been a part of Swampscott for over 155 years, we lament the cowardly actions used to inflict harm on other people. We align ourselves with all who would seek to embody the principles of love and justice as we seek to immobilize hate in our community.

Lastly, as a Christian community of faith, we pray for resolution and reconciliation that restores the soul, refreshes the mind, and reinvigorates the people of Chabad Lubavich who have been damaged by these abusive actions.

Let us with renewed vigor, compassion, and courage seek ways to live with one another that respect persons and thus give no space for evil to rob a person and community of the gift of life which God has graciously granted.

May mercy, justice, and humility characterize our thoughts and actions as we live together here in Swampscott.
The Rev. Dean W. Pedersen, Senior Pastor
The First Church in Swampscott, Congregational