The massacre that killed 11 inside a synagogue on Saturday hits hard for some members of the Lansing community. Some have close ties the Pittsburgh area.
Rabbi Hendel Weingarten says a few members of Chabad House of Greater Lansing/MSU are from Pittsburgh and knew some of the victims.
“It’s a very difficult time for them because they know the whole Pittsburgh is hurting really bad," said Weingarten.
His synagogue in East Lansing held a service Sunday night.
On Sunday night, at least 2,000 mourners packed Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall in Pittsburgh and thousands more stood outside at a vigil for the 11 who were killed during Sabbath services at a Pittsburgh synagogue.
Rabbi Weingarten said we all have a role to get through this tragedy.
“Be the light – every person has the opportunity to be the light for the next person and help them," said Weingarten. "Say a nice word, say hello to people when you’re walking on campus.”
Rabbi Weingarten said security always is a concern at his house of worship, but his focus right now is comforting those who are in mourning.