Temple Israel’s pre-Thanksgiving Shabbat service on Nov. 16 held a more special place in the Lawrence congregation’s minds as children from the Five Towns community and the Reform temple’s religious school had their personal experiences read aloud by Rabbi Jay Rosenbaum, and helped conduct the service.

In addition, the temple collected coats, blankets and non-perishable food that will be distributed to those in need in the Rockaways, Long Beach and Freeport, and throughout the South Shore of Long Island.

“Our focus now must not be on the destruction, but on our dedication to create for ourselves, our community and our children secure tomorrows, strong homes and institutions, …” Rosenbaum said.