Delegates to a national Jewish young adult convention were told here today that their positive commitment to Jewish ideals and values was the key to the survival of Jewish life in America. The warning was sounded by Dr. Ira Eisenstein, president of the Jewish Reconstructionist Foundation of America, who called for a “young adult-inspired extraordinary effort.”
“Jewish young adults must break through the vicious cycle of ignorance and indifference which has caught this generation in its grip,” Rabbi Eisenstein told the more than 100 delegates attending the 18th annual convention of the B’nai B’rith Young Adults. He said he was singling out Jewish young adults for “this vital mission” because today’s Jewish adult community has “neglected to discipline itself in the study and application of Jewish ideals.” In addition, he said “the children growing up today are too young to assume such a responsibility, especially if they are being brought up in homes where Jewish knowledge and loyalty are meagre.”
Young adults,” the rabbinic leader said, “have to make the great decision to put an end to drifting and begin directing American Judaism in the way that it may go.” Dr. Eisenstein said Jewish young adults should have the “enthusiastic support and cooperation of rabbis and teachers of all the wings of Judaism” in their efforts.
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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.
