Compiled by The Bedford Citizen
On Friday evening November 2 Temple Shalom Emeth welcomed mourners, religious leaders of all faiths, and dignitaries who gathered to express solidarity with Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life Synagogue. The synagogue was the site of the October 27, 2018 shooting where 11 worshipers were killed in one of the worst acts of antisemitism the United States has experienced according to news reports.
The deaths in Pittsburgh included Jerry Rabinowitz, MD, the son of Sally Rabinowitz and brother of William Rabinowitz. The local connection made this particular tragedy a personal affair not only for the Rabinowitz family but also for their Bedford community, with scores traveling to Burlington for Friday’s service.
Rabbi Susan Abramson of Temple Shalom Emeth described her ongoing connection with Sally Rabinowitz and described the message of appreciation she had recently received from Dr. Rabinowitz. Click this link to read Rabbi Susan Abramson’s remarks
Rev. John Gibbons of First Parish in Bedford where the Rabinowitz family are long-time members said “Anti-semitism as a projection of evil onto you-know-who. So, of course, we must condemn the anti-semitic acts of others. But as individuals and as a society we must be willing to face and name and excise all our malignancies: racism, classism, homo[phobia] and transphobia, xenophobia, islamophobia, fear itself, ableism, nationalism, and hubris.” Click this link to read Rev. Gibbons’ remarks
In encouraging a move beyond thoughts and prayers, State Rep. Ken Gordon said, “Offering thoughts and prayers is necessary, brings us together, and makes us feel as if we’ve done something. They are useful and should not cease. But what have they accomplished?”
“Being offended and not voting is not worth the paper that an unused ballot is printed on,” continued Gordon. “Please honor the memory of Jerry Rabinowitz. When he heard the shots ring out at his synagogue, he was in a side room, safe from the bullets’ path. He left that safety and rushed toward the bullets, because, as a physician, he thought someone might need his help.
“You don’t have to run toward the bullets as Jerry did, but you can walk toward a ballot on his behalf, and on behalf of all those silenced by senseless hate and violence.
“Most of all, you can walk the walk for yourself, for your sense of dignity and for your sense of our shared humanity. Because then you will know that with a good conscience your only sure reward, with history the final judge of your deeds, you went forward to lead the land you love, asking His blessing and His help,” Gordon continued, “but knowing that here on earth you truly made God’s work your own.
“Please, help,” Gordon ended, “Please, vote.” Click this link to read Rep. Gordon’s remarks
Editor’s Note: The New York Times wrote about Dr. Jerry Rabinowitz
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