Jewish people all over the world are uniting in prayer. At shuls, community centers, holy sites, schools, and parks, our brothers and sisters raise their unified voice in prayer. It’s no small thing to take time from one’s day and engage in a meaningful spiritual encounter on behalf of our dear brothers. Their predicament breaks our heart. But it does not break our spirit. The tragedy has galvanized thousands and thousands of people to join together in prayer, song, silence, and reflection.

This is just a small sample of the many prayer gatherings and vigils from around the world. Every kind of religious flavor is represented in these photos. This is the Jewish nation. We are not merely connected by ethnicity, race, region, or common rituals. We are connected by deep concern for each other that transcends all rational explanation. I’ve never met the three boys, but they are my brothers and I cry for them and their families. And I’m not the only one. Every Jewish person shares this concern and anxiety for their welfare. These boys are one of ours. That’s why we are coming together in solidarity and prayer.