Jewish victims recalled 1 year after shooting
PITTSBURGH — The anniversary of the deadliest attack on Jews in U.S. history was marked around the world Sunday with community service projects, music and an online remembrance.
The shooting on Oct. 27, 2018, killed 11 worshippers and wounded seven at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill neighborhood.
The Tree of Life building has remained closed since the massacre. The three congregations now worship at two nearby synagogues.
Last week, Tree of Life leaders unveiled their vision for the damaged building: a rebuilt space for places of worship; memorial, education and social events; and classrooms and exhibitions.
The commemoration’s theme is “Remember. Repair. Together.” It includes a private Jewish service, studying the portion of the Torah that was to be read when the shooting happened, opportunities to do community service, and a public memorial service.
Several hundred people registered to volunteer at various community organizations Sunday. In Germany, the Clarion Quartet, comprised of Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra musicians, will perform at a special event in Berlin.
Thousands were expected to participate in Sunday’s remembrance through Pause With Pittsburgh, a virtual memorial event created by the Jewish
Federations of North America.
A steady stream of people have stopped by the closed Pittsburgh synagogue that one year ago was the scene of the deadliest attack on Jews in U.S. history.
Lining the fence outside the Tree of Life synagogue were 11 flowerpots, each bearing one of the names of a person killed in the attack, which also wounded seven others.
People have also left bouquets and crocheted hearts at the site.