Our Israeli guide, Michal, did a very fine job of walking us through the exhibits and pulling together the various pieces of the narrative. Among other things she highlighted the two constrasting solutions to the problems created by the fact that ever since the destruction of Jerusalem the Jews have been a wandering people, unable to find acceptance in a permanent place to call home. One solution, proposed by Theodore Herzl and other nineteenth century Zoionists, was to create a homeland in Palestine for the Jews. A return to their ancient land. The other solution, the so-called final solution, was proposed by Adolph Hitler and the Nazis--genocide.
Michal pointed out the three step process which the Nazis engaged in as they sought to eliminate the Jews. First, identify. Second, isolate. Third, exterminate. How diligently we must guard against such a thing happening again. We must speak out when any group is being singled out. We must speak out against anti-Semitism and other forms of prejudice anytime they appear. But more than that, we muse be willing to take steps to prevent it happening in the first place.
This trip bears witness to the joint effort ourt two congregations are making towards that end. And Friday night we had the opportunity to share that witness with the members of Congregation Har-El, a Reform Jewish Congregation here in Jerusalem. We so appreciated their hospitality. My friend and co-leader Rabbi Steve Fuchs gave a powerful sermon on God's love of diversity. I was also offered an opportunity to share a few words. It was a very moving experience for all of us.
We don't do it perfectly. But I am proud to be part of this ongoing effort (over twenty-five years now) to live together as two congregations. It can be done. It really can be done. And I think when we do it we are making our small contribution to creating a world where a holocaust cannot happen again. The work is far from over, but what we do does indeed count.
(Photo Credit: Janice Chaddock)
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