Today marks four years since 11 worshippers were murdered at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Squirrel Hills
The community will stand together in remembrance and solidarity during a commemoration ceremony in Schenley Park Thursday afternoon.
It begins at 4 pm.
The event is organized by the 10/27 healing partnership will include songs from local choirs and a candle light.
It's one of a number of events this week. The organization will also host a commemorative torah study and blood drive.
Robert Bowers - the alleged gunman in the deadliest anti-semitic attack in US history - was recently assigned a trial date. Jury selection is set to begin April 24.
The theme of the ceremony is, "Remember, reflect, in spirit and in action." Rabbi Jeffrey Myers says life-affirming acts of kindness are a fitting way to honor the lives taken in the massacre.
“The way to do it is to show love and kindness to your neighbor, to show that we’re above that,” said Myers. “We offer deeds of love and kindness to help our neighbors, to improve our society to make the world a better place.”
President Joe Biden released a statement marking four years since the Tree of Life Synagogue attack.
He called Pittsburgh an inspiration, saying the city has shown what it means to be stronger than hate. Biden added his administration is working to address increasing antisemitism and gun violence in America.
The statement said in part:
In the four years since that terrible day, the people of Pittsburgh have shown us what it means to be stronger than hate. Welcoming the community to Torah study sessions. Showing their support for refugees and immigrants. Reimagining the Tree of Life synagogue as both sanctuary and memorial. The courage and character of the Pittsburgh community remains an inspiration to us all.