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Locals remember victims of Pittsburgh Synagogue massacre

Published November 3, 2018 2:53 AM

Friday marked the first Sabbath since the shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh.

All across the valley people gathered at different synagogues and churches to remember the lives lost and rise above hate.

Security greeted people as they enter these local places of worship. Rabbi Richard Zionts of Har-El in Palm Desert said there is a demand for extra protection in places people are supposed to feel safe.

“Shocking and a very horrific experience even being away from there to know that this kind of anti-semitic hate can erupt in that fashion,” Zionts said.

The first memorial service of the night to honoring the 11 lives lost in Pittsburgh was held at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Palm Desert.

Meanwhile in Palm Springs, religious leaders from Temple Isaiah invited the community to reflect while also celebrating in an interfaith pride service. Following that ceremony was a remembrance at Temple Sinai in Palm Desert.

“I think that there’s a bright future ahead. I’m optimistic for the future but at the same time, cautious and would like to see things change,” Bentley said.