Jews and others around the country are grieving over the October 27th shooting of 11 people at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh. A week after the shooting, members of other faiths and non-believers responded to a “Show up for Shabbat” invitation from Jewish Congregations across the country. As KUAC’s Robyne reports, Fairbanks’ only synagogue welcomed visitors as well.
Sound: Congregants saying from “Prayer for our country.”
In Fairbanks, sabbath services are on Friday nights. Congregation Or HaTzafon – or “Light of the North” in English has an open-door policy welcoming visitors. Last Friday, they came.
Mary McFarlane says she worried that a long-time Methodist might not be welcome at the Shabbat service, but wanted to show community support. “What happened in Pittsburgh hurt my heart, terribly, as does all the division in our country these days, be it religion or race. And I’m very glad I came.”
Brian Kassof knew he would be welcomed. “In response to what happened last week, it was my first instinct – was just at least to come and be supportive, and also that no one is going to scare people away.”
The Pittsburgh shooting was during Saturday morning services for three different congregations all meeting in the Tree of Life building. In Fairbanks and North Pole, Congregation Or HaTzafon - Light of the North tries to cover a spectrum of Jewish belief in just one congregation, because it’s the only Jewish institution in town.
Fewer than 100 households in Fairbanks and North Pole are members; even fewer show up for events. But there are always enough to say the Mourner’s Kaddish – the Jewish prayer for the dead.
Sound: Congregants chanting Mourners’ Kaddish.
Violence and hate are tough subjects for children, but Lindsey Weidmeyer says she wanted to start the conversation with her kids.
“It’s time. Ya know, my son was a little nervous about it. But you can’t live your whole life scared to leave your house, you have to show that you can be brave and strong, and come here and prove that you’re not scared. That’s why we’re here, to learn and be surrounded by good people.”
After the service, guests joined in a Kiddush – a traditional blessing for food and fellowship.
Brian Kassof: “Of course, I’m not a member of the community, so I didn’t realize how many people were here for the first time. It’s a testament to the community, and very impressive, that so many people showed up.”