(JTA) — One of the victims of the shooting rampage in San Bernardino was a Messianic Jew who wore tzitzit fringes and a Star of David tie clip.
Nicholas Thalasinos, 52, was a “devout believer” and Messianic Jew, his wife, Jennifer, told the Los Angeles Times. Messianic Jews are Christians who believe Jesus was the Messiah, yet incorporate some components of Judaism. No major denomination of Judaism accepts the sect as Jewish.
“He became born again a couple of years ago, and because of that I had a very strong faith,” Jennifer Thalasinos said, “so I know that he’s in a much better place.”
A picture of the couple that has circulated widely since the shooting shows Nicholas wearing a tallit, or Jewish prayer shawl, around his neck.
Thalasinos was among 14 people killed Wednesday at a facility for the developmentally disabled in San Bernardino, California, east of Los Angeles.
The suspects, Syed Rizwan Farook and Tashfeen Malik, had traveled to the Middle East and reportedly had contact with Islamic extremists. Law enforcement agencies are treating the incident as a potential terrorist attack.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
