A message of encouragement to the Jews in Switzerland, expressing solidarity with them in the present hour of crisis for Jews throughout the world, appears today in the Basler National Zeitung under the signature of Professor Karl Barth, noted Protestant theologian, and twenty-five other prominent Swiss citizens.
Addressed to “Dear Jews of Switzerland,” the letter reads:
“We can’t help but tell you how much the indescribable sorrow of your brethren and sisters burdens our soul. Perhaps it will strengthen your heart when you hear that Christians think of you and help you under all circumstances and pray for you. We know that the powers of evil which today attack the Jews will tomorrow try to destroy Christians.” The letter continued: “The burning down of synagogues marks the first step towards the annihilation of Christian churches. We pray to the Almighty for power to stand for all you stand and to help you if ever perseoution should come to our country.”
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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.
