Norwich ― An emotional crowd gathered Sunday in the sanctuary of Beth Jacob Synagogue in Norwich as The Jewish Federation of Eastern Connecticut hosted a Call to Action in light of the Hamas attack on Israel.

“A week and a day ago our world was shattered,” said Rabbi Mark Ekstrand, with Emanu-El of Waterford, of the terrorist attack where Hamas launched raids into Israel last weekend killing hundreds and capturing military and civilian hostages, including women and children.

“No matter what kind of Jew we are or where we come from we feel this unbelievable pain,” Ekstrand said. “We feel this pain because the Jewish people are one big family.”

The sanctuary was close to capacity with more than 200 people who nodded in agreement. Audience members were given blue ribbons to wear in support of Israel and one member was seen with an Israeli flag draped around her shoulders

The vigil and conversation was a regional effort that was planned in partnership with the City of Norwich, Ahavath Achim of Colchester, Ahavath Chesed of New London, Beth-El of New London/Waterford, Beth Jacob of Norwich, Bnai Israel of Willimantic, and Emanu-El of Waterford synagogues.

Members of the Mohegan Tribal and Norwich police departments were on site to provide security in case of emergency.

Along with local rabbis and other religions leaders, scheduled speakers included U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, D-2nd, Norwich Mayor Peter Nystrom, New London Mayor Michael Passero, Norwich Alderwoman Stacy Gould, state Rep. Devin Carney, R-Old Lyme, and the Rev. Gregory Perry, pastor of the Greeneville Congregational Church.

The Jewish federation is seeking donations to the Emergency Relief Fund to help with everything from funeral costs for Israeli families who have lost loved ones to emergency food and medical expenses and to help rebuild destroyed homes and neighborhoods.

Rachel Levy, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Eastern Connecticut, said the fund has collected more than $50 million nationwide since last weekend’s attacks.

“Today we stand with Israel,” she said in her Call to Action Sunday night. “We reaffirm that Israel has every right to protect her people.”

Donations may be made online at the federation’s website, www.jfec.com checks can be sent to Jewish Federation of Eastern Connecticut, 400 New London Turnpike, Norwich, CT 06360.