Tonight, there was a show of support from all faiths for victims of the attack on the Pittsburgh synagogue.
Temple Shalom in Lafayette held an interfaith prayer service and the message was simple: love and unity.
“If we don’t permit ourselves to do what we’re obligated to do as Jews, or of people of faith to come together in community and pray, then the fear they’re trying to instigate will overtake us,” said Student Rabbi Ross Levy. “We must combat that with love and light.”
The night was filled with song, prayer and support as multiple faiths joined for healing. More than two hundred people packed the temple, dozens even overflowing into the reception room to hear tonight’s message.
“What we realize when we come together as people of faith, we have a great deal in common,” said Andrew Armond of Episcopal School of Acadiana. “What we have in common is respect for human life and respect for dignity for every person.”
Sidney Morales, Pastor of Alpha Omega Church said, “This has been a wake-up call for us to start praying for our Jewish brothers here in the U.S. and for the leadership here to be able to open their doors.”
During the service, leaders of multiple faiths lit candles and read a message, honoring the victims of the shooting at Tree of Life Synagogue.
The night wrapped up with faith leaders reminding the congregation of Dr. Martin Luther King’s quote: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
