The Lutheran Church in Australia has issued a statement about Jews and Israel that was hailed by Australia’s Jewish community for its sympathy and understanding of Jewish concerns.
The Statement on Lutherans and Jews, issued by the Council of Presidents of the Lutheran Church of Australia, recognizes Judaism as a living religion and the State of Israel and the City of Jerusalem as holding “a central place in the faith and life of most Jews.”
The thrust of the document deals with anti-Semitism and the Holocaust, acknowledging that “Christians over the centuries have often mistreated and persecuted the followers of Judaism and so have failed to live by the faith they profess.”
The Lutheran Church press, before and during World War II, was criticized in the statement for its role in publishing anti-Jewish propaganda. The statement also criticized Lutherans who may “through ignorance, envy or fear, accept bigoted information put out by extreme right-wing groups about Jews.”
Diane Shteinman, president of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, said, “this statement confirms the depth of commitment for a relationship based on understanding and honesty.”
In 1992, the Catholic Church in Australia issued a major statement on building a constructive relationship with Jews, which was followed by the Anglican Church issuing guidelines to its members for strengthening the relationship.
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