Convention of Reform Jewry Opposes Govt. Aid to Parochial Schools

A resolution opposing “governmental grants, loans or other forms of fiscal aid” to parochial schools, was adopted here today at the concluding session of the general assembly of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations. The resolution emphasized, however, that this stand “does not imply any lack of regard or respect for religiously sponsored institutions or education.”

“The devotion of our Union to the separation of religion and the state and our equally deep commitment to public education as a cornerstone of the American democratic process impel us to reaffirm our opposition to any form of governmental aid to elementary and secondary schools under the supervision or control of any religious denomination or sect, Catholic, Protestant or Jewish,” the resolution said. “To this end we support the President of the United States who is striving so valiantly to uphold that position.” The resolution urged religious organizations themselves to support religious education.

Another resolution called for vigilance in maintaining church state separation by barring “religious practices such as Bible reading, prayer, singing of hymns, religious holiday observances and baccalaureate exercises” from public educational institutions.

Another resolution urged rabbis and all members of Reform Jewish congregations to strengthen “the cause of Israeli Liberal Jews by visiting and financially supporting them during visits to Israel and by making known their affiliation with such Reform Jews so that the people of Israel shall know that the Reform Jews in their country are part of a worldwide Reform movement entitled to support and respect.” Judge Emil N. Baar, of New York City, was re-elected chairman of the board of trustees of the UAHC.