Good afternoon. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this journey over the last phase of the trial; we and those at court have received incredible gestures of care. These include art and letters from students, from preschoolers to highschoolers, blue plush clouds to be used as stress balls at court sewn by volunteers, baked goods and candy, and donated meals every day from local restaurants. We’d also like to extend our deep gratitude towards the committed people who drive that food from the restaurants to the courtroom every single week. We see and appreciate all your hard work and energy, and we know there are even more people providing acts of kindness for their neighbors and congregants every day.
Last Friday marked the guilty verdict, and therefore ended one phase of the trial. However, it is important that we consider this trial a marathon and not a sprint. As we continue on to the next phases of the trial, including the penalty phase, there will be unique difficulties to contend with. It is important to look towards the future and see when you will need to conserve your energy or seek connection. We recommend asking yourself when in this phase of the trial you may feel most depleted, and when you may have time and energy to put back into the community. What support systems will you utilize when you need it, and who might need your support as the trial continues? Many people receive waves of support in pivotal moments during the trial, but this is often overwhelming. Consider extending support at times when the attention may have ebbed and people might be feeling alone. We are all unique, so responses to what is going on and support will look different for each person.
We encourage those who are engaged in community, whether religious, spiritual or secular, to continue that engagement. For those who are not sure where to seek support or how to access communities of care and healing, we hope to provide some guidance. We believe that building relationships and community are often intrinsic to healing and resilience, and we hope to create spaces that foster that connection. Please consider dropping into the 10.27 Healing Partnership Center (open 9am-5pm Monday through Friday), calling at 412-697-3534, emailing info@1027healingpartnership.org, or visiting our website, 1027healingpartnership.org. As always, we also recommend that those who are seeking long-term therapy or counseling reach out to the 10.27 Healing Partnership or our trusted partner Jewish Family and Community Services. You deserve speedy and compassionate access to mental health care.
Opportunities for Healing
Chaplains The Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh and JFCS, in collaboration with the Center for Pastoral Education at JTS, have organized visiting chaplains from outside of the city to serve Pittsburgh during this time. These chaplains are available for those feeling the emotions around trial that continue to impact us so deeply. Reach them through JFCS’ resources at: counseling@jfcspgh.org or 412-521-3800.
Patio Beautification- in Memory of Rose Mallinger Join the Mallinger family, Repair the World, and AgeWell at the JCC as we continue beautifying the Levinson Patio to welcome the gathering of older adults there. The patio beautification is in memory of Rose Mallinger, z”l, who was an active participant in AgeWell programs. Register here.
Drop-in Counseling The 10.27 Healing Partnership has counselors in our office every week day to talk to anyone. No payment, insurance, or appointment required. Check out our website for hours—we hope you’ll stop by.
צֶ֥דֶק צֶ֖דֶק תִּרְדֹּ֑ף Justice, justice, shall you pursue.
In Solidarity,
Maggie Feinstein Director 10.27 Healing Partnership