In the aftermath of the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history, Rabbi Jeffrey Myers of the Tree of Life Congregation in Pittsburgh found solace in the Book of Psalms. His journey through its 150 chapters led him to discover inspiration in Psalm 121: ‘My help comes from God, maker of the heavens and the Earth.’
This realization restored his faith, enabling him to endure his responsibilities following the tragic events of October 27, 2018. On that day, a gunman invaded the Tree of Life synagogue, resulting in the deaths of 11 worshippers. The attack targeted congregations of Dor Hadash, New Light, and Tree of Life.
Rabbi Myers took the role of spiritual leader a year before this catastrophe. Since then, he has been a guiding force in the congregation’s healing journey, including enduring a delayed trial that led to the perpetrator’s death sentence, navigating the pandemic, and starting the construction of a new building.
“My mission has come to a conclusion,” Myers stated. He is stepping down to make room for new leaders and fresh voices at Tree of Life.
Originally from New Jersey, Myers plans to move back to be with his family, including his daughter and granddaughter. He looks forward to reading, writing, and working on personal healing.
Known for seamlessly blending scripture with pop culture, Myers quoted Spock from ‘Star Trek II’: “The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.” He also drew on musical references like the Beatles and ‘Rent’ during his farewell speech. He expressed gratitude to congregation members, the clergy, public officials, and police officers who risked their lives during the attack.
His farewell included remembrance of each victim by name, wishing their memories to be a blessing. He concluded with a congregation sing-along to Carole King’s “You’ve Got a Friend.”
Myers’ journey began in his childhood synagogue’s choir in New Jersey. Initially a pre-med student, he later focused on Judaism and music, eventually becoming a rabbi at Tree of Life. He led services during the massacre, advising those present on how to stay safe amidst the gunfire.
Following the attack, Myers supported the congregation through long days of funerals. With the synagogue deemed a crime scene, Tree of Life began holding services at Rodef Shalom. Despite the challenges, Myers insisted on maintaining Jewish observances to defy the attacker’s intent.
The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted recovery efforts temporarily, shifting worship to remote services. Yet, conducting his daughter’s outdoor wedding signaled a personal uplift, realizing a Psalm’s promise: “God turned my mourning into rejoicing.”
In 2023, as the trial of the attacker unfolded, Myers balanced his spiritual duties with family. He testified in court while anticipating the birth of his granddaughter, unwilling to let the attacker rob him of significant life moments.
In the wake of the trial verdict, the congregation forged bonds with Mother Emanuel AME Church, another community affected by a hate-motivated shooting. Rabbi Myers connected with Emanuel’s pastor, focusing on combating antisemitism and elevating human dignity.
The rebuilding of the aged and damaged Tree of Life building is underway, including a memorial for the victims and anti-semitism exhibits. The structure, planned to be completed by 2028, aims to preserve the victims’ memories.
Robin Friedman, the congregation’s president, recognizes Myers as “the right person at the right time,” emphasizing the bittersweet nature of his departure. Recently, new families have joined Tree of Life, signaling rejuvenation and hope for its future.
As Audrey Glickman, an attack survivor, indicates, the congregation remains determined not to let the shooter triumph or fade into history.
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