Vigil held in Orlando for victims of synagogue shooting

ORLANDO, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - One synagogue in Orlando held a vigil Tuesday to remember the lives lost in Pittsburgh.

Hundreds filled the main sanctuary at the Congregation of Reform Judaism. As they entered the synagogue, attendees were given forms, calling on them to do more than just mourn, but to take action.

“Condemning those who use hateful words and rhetoric so easily.”

It was an outlet to mourn and a place to seek guidance. 

“Our rabbi, I know he is the voice of reason, and I'm hoping that he will have some comforting words to us,” said Jill Cousins, of Winter Springs.

The Congregation of Reform Judaism welcomed all colors, races, religions and backgrounds to mourn the victims of the shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. An hour-and-a-half was spent praying, listening to sermons and hearing stories from one member of the congregation who’s from the Squirrel Hill neighborhood in Pittsburgh and was a member of Tree of Life growing up. 

The night was more than just a service, but a call to action. 

“It is incumbent upon us to take action, to do everything in our power to make sure this type of thing never happens again.”

A from was handed out, asking each attendee to choose a location for work session to create ways to “hold citizens…and leaders accountable for what they say and the words they use.” 

“We’re working together to try to show a greater love, greater concern, greater respect for each other,” said Interfaith Council of Central Florida Executive Director Pastor Jim Coffin.