A few weeks ago I had an opportunity to photograph the morning service at Beth Shalom temple in Squirrel Hill.  As part of my “Communities” project, I would like to document as many different Pittsburgh communities as I possibly can.  That being said, I have special interest in the Jewish community.  Having grown up in the Soviet Union, religion has always been a taboo topic at home or at school.  Also, given the ever-present antisemitism, I did not find out that I were Jewish until I was 12.  I’ve been learning more about my heritage and culture in the recent years thanks to my kids, but having an opportunity to observe and document a religious service was a welcome experience.  Many thanks to Rabbi Adelson and the Congregation Beth Shalom community for welcoming me.