Synagogues in California took special security measures to protect congregants over Rosh Hashana. So did shuls in Pittsburgh, and indeed, in all of America. Such measures included installing extra security cameras, having guards check handbags, and hiring extra security guards.

Somehow, we have always thought this would not be needed here, in America. It is a sad commentary that we never seem to see these things coming. We didn’t see it in Germany, and now, we’re still inclined to think of Poway and Tree of Life as aberrations. When we feel safe, anywhere in the world, is it just a mirage?