3:46 PM ET, June 16, 2023
Tree of Life rabbi thanks authorities and prosecutors for “standing up in court to protect my right to pray”
From CNN’s Sarah Boxer
Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images/File
Tree of Life Rabbi Jeffrey Myers, who survived the synagogue shooting, said he thanks God and law enforcement after gunman Robert Bowers was convicted on federal charges Friday.
“I’m thankful to God for getting us to this day. And I’m thankful to the law enforcement officers who risked their lives to save me and the US Attorney who stood up in court to defend my right to pray. Myers The accused said in a statement issued following the verdict.
He added, “Today I focus on being with my congregation by praying, singing and clapping praises to God every Shabbat. In the dire circumstances of our society, I can think of no better response. I practice my Jewish faith and worship.
Tree of Life CEO Carol Zawatsky, along with other church leaders, offered words of support to survivors and victims’ families in a statement. While the guilty verdict won’t bring back loved ones, she said she hopes it will bring some comfort.
“On this day, let us reaffirm our commitment to bring light into our world, and as we do the work of Tikkun Ha’Olam, we will keep the memory of each victim in our hearts and mend our broken world,” Zawatsky said in the statement.
Tree of Life Council President Alan Hausman thanked law enforcement and others who helped after the shooting.
“The way our community and all faiths came together after October 27, 2018, has helped me and continues to inspire me and give me strength as we move forward,” he said in the statement.
