Good evening Friend, 

We wanted to share a brief update with our community.

Last night, the individual responsible for the earlier incident returned and caused additional damage to our Chabad House. Another window was broken, and swastika graffiti was sprayed on the door. Thankfully, it has since been removed.

We are in close contact with local and federal law enforcement and MSU campus safety, who are actively investigating and taking this situation very seriously. Fortunately, we also have the support and leadership of Jewish Federation’s security team. We are grateful for their ongoing efforts and support.

This is deeply upsetting — but it does not define us, and it will not deter us. We are guided by the message of Chanukah: when darkness increases, so must light. Retreat has never been the Jewish response.

So tonight, and every night, we choose light. We light the menorah. We light the fifth candle — the moment when there are more candles than darkness — a reminder that from this point forward, light only grows stronger. Light always prevails. 

Chabad remains open, strong, and unwavering in its mission to be a home away from home for Jewish Spartans — a place of warmth, safety, Jewish pride, and belonging. That mission continues because of the strength, resolve, and support of this community.

To help sustain this vital home for Jewish Spartans, please visit JewishSpartans.com/shine to donate.

With gratitude and strength,

Rabbi Bentzy & Simi Shemtov