British Chief Rabbi Sees Jewish Position Improved

(Jewish Telegraphic Agency)

Evidence of definite amelioration in Jewish conditions in most lands is seen by Dr. J. H. Hertz, Chief Rabbi of Great Britain, in his New Year message.

“The last year has seen signs of ‘moral disarmament’ among the nations, and a further return of the world’s life towards the paths of peace. Even the waves of hatred that so often threatened to overwhelm Israel are ebbing, and in most lands there is evidence of definite amelioration in Jewish conditions.” the Chief Rabbi declared.

“All the more are we filled with deep anxiety by the war against religion which still rages in Soviet Russia. Religious instruction to children in groups of more than two constitutes a heinous crime: and this prohibition is carried out with special vindictiveness by the Jewish communists against their mother Faith. Jewish public opinion throughout the world does not fully realize the grave and inevitable consequences of such a deliberate attempt to cut off the future of three millions of Jews by strangulation of soul. With heavy hearts will we remember our sorely-tried brethren on the Days of Awe, and fervently pray that the Shofar of the New Year proclaim the passing of persecution and the dawn of true freedom among all the children of men.

“In Anglo-Jewry, the manifold communal endeavor evidenced in so many directions during the year that is closing, gives its courage for the tasks that are still unachieved, nay, unattempted. One cause especially is dear to my heart and gives me no rest — how to relieve the desperate misery of the widows and orphans of our poorer clergy. May the coming year bring a solution of this problem, and crown all undertakings for the advancement of Israel, whether in the sphere of religion, philanthropy, or national rebirth, with lasting and beneficent results.”

The Women’s League of the United Synagogue of America, at its last Executive Council meeting appointed a Religious Observance Committee which will concern itself this coming year in stressing the observance of the Sahbath, and the attendance, at Synagogue on the Sahbath. It will also emphasize the importance of observance, of the dietary laws at all public functions and urge that their functions should not be held on the Sahbath.