Rabbi Jeffrey Myers, of Tree of Life Congregation in Pittsburgh, faced a profound spiritual struggle after the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history. Following multiple funerals for his congregants, Myers, 70, found himself grappling with his faith. He sought solace in the Book of Psalms, discovering inspiration in a passage that affirmed his faith.

Myers has announced his retirement this month as the congregation’s spiritual leader. He assumed this role just over a year before the tragic events of October 27, 2018, when a gunman stormed the synagogue, killing 11 people from three congregations including Tree of Life.

In the years since, the congregation has endured a protracted trial resulting in the gunman’s death sentence, navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, and begun constructing a new building. “My mission has come to a conclusion to the best that I could,” Myers stated. He expressed hope for new voices to guide the congregation’s future.

Rabbi Myers plans to return to New Jersey to be closer to family. He looks forward to personal projects and healing. “As Mr. Spock says in ‘Star Trek II,’ the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few,” he noted. His leadership style often intertwined scriptural references with popular culture, as seen in his farewell address to his congregation.

During his farewell, Myers thanked those who supported him, recalling each victim by name, and led the congregation in singing Carole King’s “You’ve Got a Friend.” Members expressed gratitude for his leadership through difficult times. Audrey Glickman, a survivor, praised Myers for his steady guidance after such a harrowing experience.

Myers’ path to Tree of Life began in his youth, singing in his childhood synagogue’s choir. Raised near Newark, New Jersey, he pursued his passion for Judaism and music, becoming a cantor before ordination as a rabbi.

The horrific event at Tree of Life took place during Sabbath services. Hearing gunfire, Myers instructed congregants on how to react based on their ability to escape or hide. Despite the danger, he survived the attack thanks to police officers. He later reflected on his ancestors’ suffering and prayed for forgiveness.

In the aftermath, Myers’ leadership became evident as he conducted funeral services and guided the congregation through the trial and rebuilding process. Worship continued at a nearby synagogue to assert their perseverance against the attacker’s intentions. There were moments of joy as well, such as a congregant’s bar mitzvah soon after the attacks.

COVID-19 posed additional challenges but Myers adapted by leading remote services. His personal life offered solace, notably at his daughter’s outdoor wedding. He further demonstrated commitment, balancing personal milestones with obligations like testifying in the gunman’s trial, which concluded with a death sentence.

Tree of Life developed ties with Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, another site of tragic violence. Both communities forged bonds in shared resilience. Rev. Eric Manning of Emanuel AME emphasized the importance of opposing antisemitism and bigotry in all forms.

The congregation plans to open a new building by 2028, including a memorial for the victims. Current leaders are optimistic about Tree of Life’s future, buoyed by the recent influx of new families and their contributions.

“We intend not to let the shooter win and not to fade away into history,” said Glickman, affirming a commitment to remembrance and resilience.