Exchange with Johan Snoek about R. Soloveitchik's Meeting with Archbishop Appleton (1972)

/ / / / / Exchange with Johan Snoek about R. Solo…

Correspondence

June 1972

Exchange with Johan Snoek about R. Soloveitchik's Meeting with Archbishop Appleton (1972)

Interfaith

1. Johan Snoek to R. Lamm

1. Johan Snoek to R. Lamm (June 9, 1972)

1. Johan Snoek to R. Lamm (June 9, 1972)

View The Text

This content is currently available in its original PDF format. As we expand the library, we plan to add a text version as well.

Next Letter

RELATED CONTENT

Correspondence

Exchange with R. Bergman about Archbishop Visit to Hebrew University (1967)

Dear Dr. Bergman: Earlier this week I called you over the telephone in order to inform myself of the particulars concerning your charge against the Hebrew University and their invitation to Archbishop Cody of Chicago. I met with the officials of the Hebrew University that same day, this past Monday, and I think it important to relate to you impressions of that meeting and my opinions, whatever they are worth, on the matter. First, I think it is exceedingly important to refrain from any exaggerations or extravagances, lest we vitiate the true merit of our argument. Therefore, I would not confuse the proposed “Archbishop Cody Chair in Canon Law” with the teaching about Christianity in general and, in fact, with instruction in Canon Law itself at the Hebrew University. I cannot see any objection to the teaching of Christianity at a university. I am a shomer mitzvot and the chairman of the comparative religion department is a warm, observant Jew who is a shomer mitzvot. Furthermore, I do not believe that the proposal is at all one of giving aid and comfort to Christian missions in Israel. Nevertheless, I was upset by the report of the establishment of this chair, and that is why I called you and attended the meeting with the people from the University. The information that was given to me, and which I believe to be correct, is that the entire matter was excited by a local public relations man who had failed to clear the plan with the proper authorities of the Archbishop – who is a most friendly man and had been visited – and the association mentioned, it was obviously impossible to withdraw and amounted to a slap in the face to him and the entire Catholic community of Chicago. Moreover, despite the local radio and television announcements, there was no mention in print, or impression given to the Archbishop, that there was to be a chair at the University for Canon Law. Mr. Charwik of Jerusalem specifically told the audience in Chicago that what was planned was a visit…

Correspondence

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

Correspondence

Exchange with R. Solomon Freilich about Translating "The Jews and the Ecumenical Council" Into Hebrew (1964)

Dear Norman, In order not to be guilty of the admonition of אל תמנע טוב מבעליו, I must write to tell you how pleased I was with your most recent article in Jewish Life on “the Jews and the Ecumenical Council.” It is one of the most well thought out and reasoned articles I have read on this subject, and I intend to discuss it in one of my forthcoming Sabbath Morning Sermons. It would be a מצוה רבה to have this article disseminated as far and wide as possible, especially to college students and to many of the clergymen in the other “camps.” The article says what should have been said, in a most convincing manner, well documented, and at the same time, does no fence to our Christian brethren. I am, therefore, hopeful that this article could be translated and would find a place in a magazine such as Panim el Panim. Many of our Israeli friends who criticized the courageous stand of Chief Rabbi Nissim, as well as the editors of the Jewish Observer on regards to missionary activities, will think twice before leveling such criticism, after having read your well thought out article. If you deem it advisable, I will personally write to Mr. Felix to make this suggestion. With fondest remembrances and all good wishes for continued success in all your endeavors, I am Fraternally yours, ShelomoP.S. As an ardent admirer of all your writings, I have been missing your bulletins which I used to receive, but I haven’t received for almost a year. I would appreciate being placed once more on your mailing list, and if you would send me the issues of the last six months, I would be most grateful. Many thanks.