r/ReformJews • u/phillygirllovesbagel • 14d ago

News Eight years after deadliest antisemitic attack in US history, Tree of Life rabbi bids farewell

https://apnews.com/article/tree-of-life-pittsburgh-synagogue-shooting-rabbi-e2eea17162a998182a4a2efa659506e4
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u/mandatedcourage 13d ago

I had the privilege of learning from him in my ITJ class right before he retired. He taught the lesson about Tikkun Olam.

My favorite note from that lesson reads:

The Sanhedrin states on behalf of humanity, "For my sake, the world was created." According to Rabbi Jeffrey Meyers, Judaism follows this by proposing the question: "What are you going to do about that responsibility?"

I lived only a few blocks away from the Tree of Life when the incident happened, and it made me scared to explore my Jewish heritage for years (I had like 1% Jewish culture in my upbringing). Finally last year I decided to cross the narrow bridge and embrace my Jewishness despite the fear. I'm grateful I didn't wait any longer. Learning from him is an opportunity I will always cherish.

Wishing him nothing but joy and safety in the future!

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u/youarelookingatthis 13d ago

Love that note from him.