Public service projects planned in Pittsburgh for synagogue attack anniversary
PITTSBURGH — A virtual remembrance, an overseas concert and community service projects highlight the many plans for commemorating the deadliest attack on Jews in U.S. history on the shooting’s one-year anniversary Sunday.
The attack killed 11 worshipers and wounded seven at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill neighborhood.
“The key to the day is to remember those who were lost — innocent, beloved, sorely missed pillars of the community,” said Stephen Cohen, co-president of New Light, one of three congregations present the day of the attack.
The Tree of Life building has remained closed since the shooting. 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 have registered to volunteer at various community organizations on Sunday, said Adam Hertzman, marketing director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh.
The Clarion Quartet, composed of Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra musicians, will perform at a special event in Germany that day. Violist Tatjana Mead Chamis, cellist Bronwyn Banerdt, and violinists Marta Krechkovsky and Jennifer Orchard were invited to play at the American Academy in Berlin during the orchestra’s European tour.
Thousands are expected to participate in Sunday’s remembrance through Pause With Pittsburgh, a virtual memorial event created...