From Wednesday evening to Thursday evening, members of the Muslim faith prepared for Eid Al Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, by fasting and praying on the Day of Arafah. Coincidentally, from Wednesday evening to Thursday evening, members of the Jewish faith fasted and prayed in observance of Tisha B’Av, a day of mourning commemorating the destruction of the Holy Temples in Jerusalem.

On Tisha B’Av, Rabbi Marc Schneier reflected on these two sacred days coming together in a most extraordinary manner; sharing the commonality of fasting, reflection, and introspection, seeking God’s mercy and forgiveness, particularly amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.