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Archbishops visit South Hampstead Synagogue


Archbishop Vincent Nichols and Archbishop Emeritus Kevin McDonald were guests at South Hampstead Synagogue on 4 December. They were given a very warm welcome, and during the evening, entitled: 'Israel, Jews and Civil Society' were interviewed by Rabbi Shlomo Levin on a range of subjects.

Rabbi Levin began by asking Archbishop Vincent for his impressions of his recent diocesan pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Archbishop Vincent said the visit had been a joy, especially beginning in Jerusalem in order to get a perspective on the roots of Christianity. But he said there had been one serious concern, when he met with families in Bethlehem whose property and land was being being confiscated and taken over by Israeli forces. He said this means people are made homeless, without shelter or security, and something needs to be done about it.

Archbishop Kevin addressed the question of the proposed canonisation of Pope Pius XII. There has been criticism of the Pope’s alleged silence during the persecution of the Jews and the subsequent Holocaust. It was noted that the Vatican archives will be opened in the next four or five years and may give a different story in this sad saga. Archbishop Vincent reminded us all that there were many non-Jewish people, especially priests, who also suffered during the Holocaust.

The offensive prayer in the Good Friday Liturgy was raised. In the new service after Vatican II, this prayer was rectified but with the restoration of the Tridentine Rite, the old text remains and has re-opened the wound!

The re-acceptance by Pope Benedict, of Bishop Williams, an alleged Holocaust denier – also raised some serious questions with the Jewish community.

The matter of boycotting Israeli goods and how effective that might be to highlight resolve the conflict was discussed.

Likewise, the Archbishops and Rabbi Levin spoke about the Kairos document. Published in 2009, the statement from Church leaders in the Holy Land speaks about the plight of Christians there and appeals for the word to support them. It says that non-violent resistance to injustices is a right and a duty for all Palestinians including Christians.

Rabbi Levin then asked a pertinent rhetorical question: ‘What are we doing wrong? Why is the conflict between Jews and Christians not improving? The simple answers: We are not speaking to each other enough; we need to enter into public debate; we need to find the vocabulary for dialogue; we need to build bridges.

These are a just few observations on this historic gathering at the South Hampstead Synagogue. The welcome and hospitality was excellent. I think the event was beneficial to all who attended.

Events like this certainly help break down barriers in no uncertain terms and increase our understanding of other people’s views.

For more information on the Kairos Document see: www.indcatholicnews.com/news.php?viewStory=15312

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