Detroit Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger said on March 13 that Catholics in southeast Michigan “stand in solidarity” with the Jewish community following a violent attack at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township.
The statement comes after law enforcement reported that a man drove a truck into the synagogue and opened fire on March 12. The gunman was killed by security, according to the synagogue. All 140 students at the nearby Susan and Harold Loss Early Childhood Center were unharmed, and federal authorities are investigating the incident as a targeted act of violence against the Jewish community.
“On behalf of the Catholic community of Southeastern Michigan, I want to express my profound sorrow over today’s violent attack at Temple Israel,” Weisenburger said. “We stand in solidarity with our Jewish brothers and sisters, holding in prayer all those affected by this act of violence, especially those who are wounded, grieving, or shaken, including the congregation, first responders, and the greater community.”
The Department of Homeland Security identified the suspect as Ayman Mohamad Ghazali from Dearborn Heights. CBS News reported that Ghazali came to the United States legally in 2011 through sponsorship from his then-wife and became a citizen in 2016.
Weisenburger also said, “An attack on one faith community wounds us all. As details continue to emerge, we remain united with our partners in faith, particularly our Jewish friends and neighbors. Together, we pray for an end to violence and for deeper peace in our world. May God’s abundant love and mercy guide us toward compassion, justice, and peace.”
The Imams Council of Michigan condemned the attack “in the strongest possible terms,” stating that “Islam teaches that all places where God’s name is remembered deserve protection.” The council urged restraint from speculation during the ongoing investigation and added: “The Imams Council of Michigan stands in full solidarity with all impacted by today’s events. In times like these, our shared commitment to peace, compassion, and mutual protection must prevail over hatred and violence.”
The Chaldean Area Chamber of Commerce also responded to the tragedy due to its proximity; its sister organization quickly opened its doors as a meeting place for families during the emergency. The chamber expressed sympathy for Temple Israel’s congregation and reaffirmed support for unity among communities.
