Ways and means of combatting the “wrong kind of assimilation” were discussed at a round table conference here of progressive Jews in connection with the meeting of the Governing Board of the World Union for Progressive Judaism, which concluded its four day sessions here today.
The “right kind of assimilation” was defined as an adaptation of Jewish communities to the present environment for the purpose of maintaining better our own distinctive life. Failure in this purpose was declared to be “wrong assimilation” by the conference.
The possibilities of co-operation between Zionist and Liberal Judaism adherents were discussed. The majority of the speakers voiced their belief in the desirability and compatibility of both movements.
Claude G. Montefiore, Liberal Jewish leader, warned against the loss of Jewish distinction through the abolition of Jewish traditions such as the Sabbath.
Rabbi M. Mattuck, of the London Liberal Synagogue, who summarized the discussion, stressed the need for restoring the synagogue to the centre of Jewish intellectual life.
Another speaker at the round table was Rabbi Wm. F. Rosenbloom of New York.
Reports regarding the development of Liberal Judaism were heard. A message was received from Ludwig Vogelstein, chairman of the Board of the Union of American Congregations promising whole hearted co-operation.
The Governing Board decided in the future to invite three representatives of progressive youth movements in America and Europe to participate in its meetings with a view to co-ordinating youth work.
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The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
