Rabbi Reflects on Leadership and Healing After Pittsburgh Synagogue Attack

Rabbi Jeffrey Myers, from the Tree of Life Congregation in Pittsburgh, recently opened up about his journey following the devastating antisemitic attack at his synagogue. Struggling with prayer, he found solace in the Book of Psalms, which helped restore his faith. After years of service, he chose to retire and focus on personal healing, reflecting on the passage he encountered: ‘My help comes from God, maker of the heavens and the Earth.’

Transition and Farewell

Serving as Tree of Life’s spiritual leader barely a year before the tragic events of October 27, 2018, Myers endured challenges like presiding over the funerals of 11 worshippers. The trial of the attacker, coupled with the pandemic, marked a difficult period. Myers decided to step down and allow space for new leadership, believing his mission had concluded.

His future plans include returning to New Jersey to be near family, indulging in reading and writing, and addressing his own emotional wounds. In his farewell, Myers, known for merging scripture with pop culture, quoted various sources, expressing gratitude to his community and recalling each victim by name.

Members of the Tree of Life congregation, like Audrey Glickman, praised Myers’s steadfast leadership during tumultuous years. She acknowledged his efforts, emphasizing the care he devoted to their community.

Journey to Tree of Life

Myers’s path to Tree of Life began in New Newark, New Jersey, where his affinity for music flourished in his synagogue choir. Originally studying pre-med, he diverted to Judaism and music, eventually becoming a cantor and later a rabbi. His tenure at Tree of Life was marked by the synagogue’s shared space in Pittsburgh.

During the 2018 attack, Myers was proactive in aiding congregants, recalling the historic persecution of his people and praying for their safety and forgiveness. He survived the ordeal, continuing to guide the congregation through grief-filled weeks and the rebuilding of their worship place.

Resilience and Remembrance

Post-attack, the synagogue community persisted in their observances, resisting the intentions of the attacker. Finding moments of joy, such as celebrated bar mitzvahs, demonstrated their resilience. The pandemic further tested their strength but also brought moments of personal joy, including Myers’s daughter’s wedding.

The trial of the gunman coincided with family milestones for Myers, but he remained steadfast in testimony, uninterrupted by these events. The trial ended with a conviction and death sentence for the attacker.

Community Bonds and Future Plans

The Tree of Life congregation forged connections with Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston, fostering mutual understanding of shared trauma. Both came together, advocating against antisemitism and other discriminations.

With the synagogue’s building mostly demolished, plans are underway for a new structure. This future memorial will honor the victims and serve educational purposes on antisemitism. Currently, about 50 new families, many with young children, have joined Tree of Life, fueling optimism for the congregation’s future.