J. W. B. Convention Opens with Plea to U.S. Jews “to Live Jewishly”

The four-day convention of the National Jewish Welfare Board opened here today with a call by its president, Charles Aaron, to American Jews “to live Jewishly” and to be active in Jewish affairs.

“Our American way of life,” Mr. Aaron said in his opening address, “rests upon the belief that citizens can loyally and fully identify themselves with America as a whole and at the same time be intelligent, self-respecting members of a particular group. The richness of the life of this group, flowing constantly into the mainstream of America, contributes vitality and strength to the total society. This imposes upon us as Jews the responsibility to live Jewishly in a manner which is worthy of the opportunity democracy affords us. This requires a Jewry positive in attitude, informed, and active in the life of the Jewish group.

“The privilege of citizenship places upon every American the obligation of informed understanding of community affairs and responsible citizenship participation. It requires that each person accept a healthy balance between freedom on the one hand, and the responsibilities which all must assume for the good of the whole, on the other. Moreover, the fullest expression of American ideals is achieved only when there is the finest appreciation for one another by members of each religion, race and nationality, and a sound relationship between all in daily living. The Jewish Community Center and Young Men’s Hebrew Association must utilize the natural opportunities inherent in its program to fortify such wholesome citizenship on the part of its members,” the JWB president declared.

Chaplain Joshua L. Goldberg, district chaplain. Third Naval District, told delegates that despite shrinkage in financial support, the JWB has embarked on a nationwide pre-induction orientation program for inductees and parents alike. He asserted that “this program, if successful, should become the pattern for all agencies that concern themselves with the morale and religious welfare of men and women in uniform.” He added that JWB “is rendering a patriotic duty, in these days of stress and strain, of gigantic nature. It deserves well of the Jewish community, the American people and freedom-loving people the world over.”