They started showing up sometime on Friday night, notes of love, hope and support on the front door of Beth Isaiah Synagogue on Surrey Street.
Most were sticky notes with simple one-word messages: “Love,” “Peace” and “Faith.” Others contained longer messages or pieces of scripture.
By the time members of the congregation showed up for Shabbat service on Saturday morning, the large wooden doors were plastered with messages to help ease the pain and show how much Guelph cares in the wake of the shooting last week at a Pittsburgh synagogue.
“We were very moved,” said longtime Beth Isaiah member Michael Grand.
“I think everybody that was there Saturday morning was touched by what they found, because it was totally unexpected and very, very much appreciated.”
“I know when I saw the sticky notes I must admit I became quite emotional,” Grand said.
Neighbours, other churches, community organizations and complete strangers posted notes. People were still showing up Sunday morning, one woman leaving a folded note tucked in the door's handle.
“The work of righteousness shall be peace. - Isaiah,” said one. “Bless you. Be strong,” said another.
Others were more elaborate.
“May you feel that your pain Is our pain
Our love is your love
Hate crime will never be tolerated
Peace to you”
Grand said it's a testament to the kind of caring community Guelph is.
“The response of the community and the support that they’ve shown us at this tragic time is wonderful,” Grand said.
“It’s nice to know at a time when there’s so much hate in the world, that people in Guelph stand up and say they won’t tolerate it and they’re here to support anyone who is the target of hate.”
The notes came a few days after 300 people gathered at the University of Guelph for a vigil in memory of the 11 people killed in the Pittsburgh shooting.