FBI: Threat Against Jewish Places of Worship Included Schulenburg Temple

The FBI contacted Schulenburg Police Department last week to warn of threats against Jewish places of worship, including the local synagogue, Schulenburg’s Temple Israel. Police Chief Troy Brenek reports that an FBI agent called the police station last Wednesday, Jan. 3. Brenek said the agent reported that several threats have been made against Jewish congregations in the region. The agent asked officers to keep a close eye on Temple Israel. Brenek said he did not know the nature of the threat, and he did not believe Temple Israel was specifically targeted.

The Record reached out to the FBI Field Office in Houston for comment, but they have not responded. The FBI does not typically comment about ongoing investigations.

Temple Israel President Becky Berger said her congregation is aware of the threats.

“We are aware, but thankfully it hasn’t come to us,” she said.

Berger said the congregation has long-prided itself on building close ties with the Schulenburg community. The town was once home to a thriving Jewish community. The resident congregation has declined over the past few decades as children moved to urban areas. Berger said she’s the only current member with a Schulenburg address. But many of those descendents regularly visit Schulenburg to celebrate the Jewish holy days. The congregation’s membership today includes families from Hallettsville, Round Top and Smithville.

“We have been integrated in the community for so long, so people don’t think about doing anything crazy like that,” Berger said.

“We are very fortunate that we haven’t had any trouble,” she added.