Macon Jewish community comes together for victims in Pittsburgh synagogue shooting

October 29, 2018

Tanya Modersitzki,

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – 11 people were killed, and six others were wounded after an attack inside a Jewish synagogue in Pittsburgh over the weekend. The Jewish community in Macon is letting the families of the victims know they aren’t alone.

Rabbi’s told 41NBC this isn’t just an act of hate towards the Jewish community. The entire faith community needs to take notice.

Samantha Friedman attends and works at the Temple Beth Israel. As a Japanese and Jewish woman she says she knows the feeling of not fitting in with Americans.

“It’s something I’ve always thought. It’s always been in the back of my mind, but it’s awful to see it happen,” she said.

Although for Friedman, it’s hard to comprehend what happened at the synagogue in Pittsburgh. She feels a sense of security in Macon.

“The whole Macon community has come out for us and I feel safe here, more safe than I have before,” Friedman said.

A person she’s never met extended their condolences and prayers in a letter left on the temple door.

“I walk my dog by your synagogue and I’m so sorry about what happened and you’re not alone. You belong here and I’m thinking about you and so when I see stuff like that it sort of reminds me that it’s OK,” she said.

Rabbi Larry Schlesinger at Temple Beth Israel says now is the time to form solidarity as a community.

“Stand together and not tolerate this kind of behavior and make that expression by actually attending and standing together,” Schlesinger said.

Acts of hate won’t scare Friedman or others away from their place of worship.

“I’m not going to let one crazy person stop me from having my own faith and love of this religion,” Friedman said.

The Temple Beth Israel is holding a vigil to remember the lives lost. It’s Friday night at 6:30, and is open to the public.

Captain David Freeland with the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office holds active shooter classes. He’s held sessions for many churches and businesses. For more information you can call (478)803-2489