Earlier in January, a dear friend's shul was vandalized and broken-into. I posted about it, and generous readers contributed $984. Here is a thank-you note from the leaders of that shul, to all of you.

To the contributors to Reb Rachel's "Pass the Hat for a Vandalized Shul Campaign,"

We at Temple Beth-El of City Island wish to express our endless gratitude for your generous gifts, for lifting us up in our time of distress. Indeed, we see the sparks shining through the darkness, as we feel held by many unseen hands. In turn, we send you our blessings for God's light and abundance in all realms.

-- Rabbi Shohama, Reb David, and Your Shul by the Sea

For views of Temple Beth-El and the larger story, see Community Looks To End Religious Vandals.