Washington Clergyman Rejects Protests on Use of Church by Jews

The Very Rev. Francis B. Sayre, Jr., Dean of the Washington Cathedral, has rejected criticism by “fellow churchmen” of the removal of a cross to make room for the Ark of the Covenant when the Cathedral was used by Temple Sina, a Reform congregation, which was loaned the use of the church.

Reports of the removal of the cross during the first service held by the Jewish congregation in the church brought protests from Episcopalians throughout the nation. Dean Sayre, however, has announced a new arrangement that will permit the cross to remain on the alter at all times. A screen is placed in front of the altar and the Ark in placed on a table in front of the screen when the Jewish services are held.