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Correspondence

November 1964

Exchange with Herman Shumlin about the Vatican's Attitude Toward Jews (1964)

Interfaith

1. R. Lamm to Herman Shumlin

1. R. Lamm to Herman Shumlin (Nov. 19, 1964)

1. R. Lamm to Herman Shumlin (Nov. 19, 1964)

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Exchange with Leo Pfeffer about "Midstream" Reporting of Meeting with Cardinal Spellman (1962)

Rabbi Dr. J. B. Soloveitchik has read and approved of the text of the enclosed statement and will gladly confirm it to you if you so wish. Kindly let us have back the enclosed copy of the statement with your signature for our files. In my article in the recent (December 1962) issue of Midstream I made mention of a visit paid to Cardinal Spellman by two New York Rabbis and reported what I had understood to be the substance of their conversation. I have now been authoritatively informed that the visit was of a purely private nature (following prior consultations with national Jewish communal and rabbinic authorities), and that the facts were not as reported. In the conversations, there was not the slightest attempt made to deny or apologize for any Jewish organizations or attitudes. There was no mention whatever made of the Lord's Prayer or any other religious exercises in the public schools, and no promise was requested or given to issue any statement or pursue any policy with regard to public issues, as alleged in my article. In view of the above, I readily withdraw my erroneous statement, and express my deep regret for any distress or misunderstanding caused as a result of this report. In my article in the recent (December 1962) issue of "Midstream," I made mention of a visit paid to Cardinal Spellman by two New York Rabbis and reported what I understood to be the substance of their conversation. I have now been authoritatively informed that the visit was a purely private and unofficial nature, and the facts were not as reported. The content of their conversation was completely unlike that which had originally been conveyed to me. I regret any distress which may have been caused to the Rabbis in question as a result of this report.
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Exchange with R. Samuel Press about "The Jews and the Ecumenical Council" (1964)

Dear Rabbi Lamm, I just read your article entitled “The Jews and the Ecumenical Council.” As a rabbi, once more I thank you for sharing with us your acumen and sagacity by articulating your convictions without reserve. It is often disheartening for the Orthodox rabbi to find his leaders failing in their obligation to give direction because of their reticence to verbalize opinions which we assume would be based on Torah. I always am skeptical that their silence is not as justified as they might contend. As Sandy Press, I am appreciative that I know you. You may not recall the letter you wrote me while I was in Alaska. At a time of disillusionment, when the way of the rabbi seemed so dark, your words gave much light to my path. I soon shall make plans for next year. That “mate” of mine must be in that new locale! Roz was married to an Israeli boy. The wedding was at Kodimoh with her brother as “M’sader Kiddushin.” My family is well and send you their regards. Hoping that you and your family are well. As ever, Sandy
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Exchange with Sylvia Geller about "The Jews and the Ecumenical Council" (1964)

My dear Rabbi Lamm: It was my good fortune to have one of my husband’s sisters direct my attention to the copy of your Baccalaureate address. This is the most intelligent reaction amid our reactions and in our overwhelming emotions. It began to re-express my own intimate feelings and possible statements. If you will put our names on your mailing list it would please us. Many times I think of the excellent lecture course with you on the subject of Maimonides, which you gave in 1958. Perhaps, when we are in New York at some time, we can attend the services at your synagogue. Our very best wishes to you and your family. Respectfully, Sylvia C. Heller.
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