Jewish community responds to Pittsburgh massacre

As the extent of the horror perpetrated in Pittsburgh is being recognized throughout not just Pittsburgh and the United States, but the world, shock and grief have followed in waves. But so, too, has the desire for action, for a concrete response to the worst anti-Semitic attack on American soil.

Rabbi Mordey & Shaina Richler, of Chabad at Lake Tahoe is remembering and honoring the victims locally with the “Pittsburgh Memorial Mezuzah Campaign,” geared to make sure that every Jewish home in the region has a mezuzah—a sacred handwritten parchment scroll that is mounted on the doorpost.

A mezuzah mounted on the right side of the doorpost designates the home as Jewish. For this reason, it is an ideal symbol of Jewish pride. In a time when the first reaction may be one of apprehension, the mezuzah is also a reminder of G‑d’s ever-present protection.

Mezuzah: (Lit. “doorpost”): A small parchment scroll upon which the Hebrew words of the Shema are handwritten by a scribe. Mezuzah scrolls are rolled up and affixed to the doorposts of Jewish homes, designating the home as Jewish and reminding those who live there of their connection to G‑d and their heritage.

Judaism is not confined to synagogues. We strive for spirituality even within the comfort and familiarity of our own homes. The mezuzah on the doorpost reminds those who walk through that G‑dly life and Torah accompany them wherever they go.The campaign entails offering Jewish residents, who may be unable to afford a mezuzah, a free one for their front door. If they already have one, a local scribe will check to make sure that it’s kosher; if it’s not, he will offer a replacement.

“Our community is shocked by the senseless atrocity that took place in Pittsburgh,” said Rabbi Mordey Richler, “In the face of darkness, we’re going to bring some more light.”

The campaign is being sponsored by Chabad, a local Jewish organization.

The rabbi will be out and about throughout the coming days and weeks, offering this service to local homeowners and businesses.

Chabad at Lake Tahoe, the sponsoring organization, is a local Jewish organization offering Jewish education, outreach and social service programming for families and individuals of all ages, backgrounds and affiliations. For more information, visit www.JewishTahoe.com or call 530-314-7677.