TYLER, Texas — EDITOR'S NOTE: The video above aired on Oct. 12, 2023
A mysterious bouquet left outside of a congregation made a big statement in Tyler Wednesday.
The Congregation Beth El posted on Facebook a picture of a bouquet of roses that someone left at their doors.
Rabbi Neal Katz said the anonymous person messaged him after he posted the picture. They would like to remain anonymous but wanted to show the congregation that people in the community are thinking of them as the Israel-Hamas War continues.
"There are some people who are in the business of justifying terror," Katz said. "And then there are some people in the business of showing love...they get it."
Israel is experiencing a time of turmoil as it continues to fight against Hamas after the terrorist group attacked the country. The Hamas have killed and kidnapped several civilians.
According to the Associated Press, during the week-old war, the Gaza Health Ministry said Friday that roughly 1,900 people have been killed in the territory with over half of them under the age of 18 or women. The Hamas attack last Saturday killed more than 1,300 Israelis, including mostly civilians, and roughly 1,500 Hamas militants were killed during the fighting, the Israeli government reported.
Katz said communities across the United States are showing their solidarity during this difficult time.
"A lot of my rabbi friends are posting similar experiences across the nation," Katz said.
Katz urged people to communicate their support.
"Show love to your friends, and reach out to anyone they know who might be affected to show your love," Katz said.
Katz said more than ever it's important to support and love everyone throughout this war.
"No need for more flowers, just please take care of one another. Thank you to all those who have reached out to the congregation. We feel your love," Katz said.