Prayers for Pittsburgh
Thank you to the students, teachers and members of the Jewish and broader community who have contributed touching sentiments as part of our community's tribute for Pittsburgh. From readers as young as five to readers in their 90s, we received hundreds of messages. Pictured here is a small sample.
WHEN tragedy strikes, it can be hard to know what to do or how to help. No vigil, memorial candles, thoughts or prayers can lift those who are directly affected by the recent massacre in Pittsburgh from their deep despair.
But these small gestures show that we care, and that we feel a fraction of the immense pain experienced by the community of Pittsburgh.
As reporters, it is important to use our public platform to honour the individual lives lost, and express how our community cares more than words can often convey.
In Jewish thought, trees have always occupied a special place. The Talmud reflects how planting trees embodies our Jewish civic virtue to cultivate resources for the next generation. Roots may bind us to the past, and sprouting branches represent our future. The tree of life itself is symbolic of the path to spiritual enlightenment. Indeed, we even have a holiday – Tu b’Shevat – solely dedicated to trees.
It is uncanny that an attack of this nature should transpire at a place of worship called the Tree of Life synagogue.
We can only hope that – in the midst of collective mourning – the abundance of coloured trees and heartfelt messages from our readers will provide some comfort to those suffering, and show how – on the other side of the world – Australia stands in solidarity with Pittsburgh.
Thank you to the students, teachers and members of the Jewish and broader community who have contributed touching sentiments as part of our tribute. From readers as young as five to readers in their 90s, we received hundreds of messages. Pictured here is a small sample.
We will be sending the contributions in bound books to Tree of Life synagogue, to the families who lost loved ones, and several copies will be provided to Jewish museums and other institutions in Australia to ensure that we always remember this horrific act of antisemitism, and to signify that, together, we are stronger than hate.
Vol.1
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