TAMPA, Fla. — Hundreds gathered at a Tampa synagogue to share the nation's grief after a gunman killed 11 people inside a Pittsburgh synagogue on Saturday.
"Disgust, anger, sadness, hard to believe something like this could happen today in the United States," said Alan Kauf-Stern who attended Monday's vigil.
On Saturday, a gunman killed 11 people inside the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburg.
Authorities said the gunman expressed hatred of Jews during the rampage.
"It's a sad reality that in 2018, we haven't learned that differences shouldn't divide us, they should make us stronger," said Rabbi Josh Hearshen.
A vigil was held at the Congregation Rodeph Sholom on Bayshore Boulevard in Tampa.
Congregation members lit 11 candles, one for each victim.
Rabi Hearshen said there will never be an answer as to why a gunman would target a synagogue. Hatred has no place in this world.
"We need to come together as all human beings and reject intolerance, bigotry and hatred in any way," said Rabi Hearshen.
The synagogue's name, Rodeph Sholom, means pursuing peace.
Congregation members say it's their religious home.
"Community. There's not just the Pittsburg people that are standing. It's everyone standing together. No one by themselves. That's really nice to see," said 15-year-old Carol Kornworcel.
Mayor Bob Buckhorn also attended Monday night's vigil. Tampa Police provided security.
