Statement on Principles of American Reform Judaism Urged by Ludwig Vogelstein

(Jewish Daily Bulletin)

Declaring that Jews are not perpetuating Judaism out of pride, but adhering to it because no other religion can satisfy the longings of their souls, Mr. Ludwig Vogelstein, Chairman of the Executive Board of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, in an address before that body in session in this city tonight urged the issuance of a clear statement on the principles of American Reform Judaism, explaining to the Jews of the world, especially to the modern American Jew, the meaning of Judaism and what the Jewish religion stands for It should be made widely known, he emphasized, that Judaism does not require a confession of faith from its believers, and that in its teachings there is nothing that is contrary to modern conception of life, nor in conflict with one’s conscience or modern views. No set observances of any special rituals are demanded in the temple, he pointed out, nor is any “saving dogma” preached therein.

Ignorance is blamed by Mr. Vogelstein for the indifference on the part of the modern Jewish youth towards his religion. Lack of knowledge of the Jews’ past, and their cultural heritage, is what forces them away from their people. Enlightenment on what the American Liberal Jew stands for would, in Mr. Vogelsteir’s opinion, bring many of these Jews back into the fold. Conversion or baptisat, he added, is not the solution of the Jewish problem. Although in the 10th century it was reported than 100000 Jews in Central Europe were concerned to other religious Mr. Vegelstein said that despite this whe###### the Congregation of Israel has increased in the same century.

The occasion for Mr. Vegelstein’s address was the accused meeting of the Executive Board of the ### of A### Hebrew Congregations as organizations of ### congregations in turious pa### of the economy. In ### membership of ### congregations with an ### membership of ###. The ### is made up of di###