B’nai B’rith Dist. No. 3 Convention Notes Return of Youth to Judaism

An extensive return of Jewish youth to the influence of the synagogue and “advances in the attainment of culture and spirituality to make them truly a chosen people” have been noted during the past few years, said Judge Joseph L. Kun, of Philadelphia, in an address to the delegates at the twenty-third annual convention of District No. 3, of the Independent Order of B’nai B’rith, which closed last evening.

An aid in this movement has been the Hillel Foundation, said Judge Kun, two new foundations being recently established in Cornell University and West Virginia University. The B’nai B’rith, he stated, is an active spiritual force among Jewish people, as it enables coordination between the synagogue and laity.

According to Dr. Boris Bogen, secretary of the Grand Lodge of Bn’ai B’rith. Judaism must be so blended that it will meet existing conditions and the Bn’ai B’rith must develop work among the Jewish youth to bring it back into the fold.

One of the most important acts of the convention was to pass an amendment to the constitution authorizing the organization of ladies’ auxiliaries, which will supplement the men’s work.

Considerable discussion arose over the resolution that all past presidents of the various lodges become delegates of the grand lodge during their life. After more than an hour’s debate, it was decided to hold this resolution over till the next convention.

A synagogue for the B’nai B’rith Orphans’ Home at Erie, Pa., the gift of Charles Kline, of Allentown, was accepted in behalf of the Home by the delegates at the convention.

The synagogue, which was recently finished, will be formally opened in the near future and will provide accommodations for more than 100 persons.

Mr. Kline urged all Jews to remember that service to the unfortunate rather than to the wealthy is what makes life worth while. “When you make your will,” he said, “make it of the type that will cause you to be remembered kindly because you have perpetuated some worthy institution.” Mr. Kline also stressed the need for preserving young Jews in Judaism.

The newly-elected officers were installed last night shortly before the convention closed. Abraham Berkowitz, of Philadelphia, was installed as president; Abraham L. Wolk Pittsburgh, first vice-president; Charles Kline. Allentown, second vice-president; Joseph Herbach, Philadelphia, secretary; and Dr. B. S. Pollak, Camden. N. J. treasurer.

Isadore Sobel, president of the Erie Orphanage gave an additional report today, stating that 158 children have been cared for at the Home since it opened and that efforts are now being made to establish a library through a fund started by Judge Joseph L. Kun.