Local churches aid Beth Israel after arson attack
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – In the wake of an arson attack at Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, there has been support from across the faith community.
Parkway Hills United Methodist Church has stepped up to help Beth Israel. When members began asking how they could help after the fire on January 10, 2026, church leaders looked to their communion tradition. They set aside offerings each month to meet the needs beyond their walls.
For years, Parkway Hills’ confirmation students have visited Beth Israel, attending services and learning what it means to engage with a different faith.
Suspect in Beth Israel arson attack indicted on state charge
“The hope is that we are passing on to them a shared humanity, right? Not just with Beth Israel, but with all faiths and just all people, so that we don’t repeat atrocities of the past. That we’re passing on some teaching of sharing and love and a connection that we all have. Yes, especially with our Jewish brothers and sisters with the whole idea of being created in the image of God. But just a shared humanity in general,” said Rev. Dawn Douglas Flowers, with Parkway Hills United Methodist Church.
Funds raised during Parkway Hills’ February communion services will be directed to supporting Beth Israel.
St. Philip’s is located across the street from Beth Israel. They’ve opened their doors to provide some of their spaces for members of Beth Israel Congregation.
“We’ve offered that space is a place for people to gather when they want to maybe come bear witness, members, displaced to kind of gather and be together. You know, that’s the way we’ve made it available, but I’ve learned of an outpouring of support from Jackson, which is, you know, for such a horrible situation,” said Rev. Les Hegwood, with St. Philip’s Episcopal Church.
Beth Israel Congregation is also accepting donations at bethisraelms.org for the Beth Israel Rebuilding Fund.
Thanks for signing up!
Watch for us in your inbox.
Subscribe Now
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV.
