Letter from Moses Feuerstein to Isaac Wolfson about the Dr. Jacobs Affair in England (1964)
Dear Sir Isaac: I noted your letter to the editor in the June 19th issue of the Jewish Chronicle, and I am taking this opportunity to compliment you about how well you have handled all of the very difficult problems involved in the Jacobs issue. Often in the course of the turbulent events out of which history is made, we tend to forget the forest because of the trees. In this particular case, we in America have the opportunity of viewing the entire episode from the distance. It is my considered opinion, also shared by many of my associates, that your contribution has been a historic one. Had you not been at the helm, we would have far less grounds for the feelings of optimism that we now share as a result.The historic shake-down which the English/Jewish community received as a result of this affair can have many happy implications. It moved the community from its complacency. Orthodoxy found that it could enter into a tumble-down fight, got bruised and dirty, and still rise up, dust off its trousers and shirt, and get on to the work at hand. This is the virility upon which the creative strength of a community is based.Now that Dr. Jacobs has decided to exclude himself from the community, so to speak, the way is now open for the development of a program which will capture the imagination of the community. By making it aware of the relevance of Orthodox Judaism to modern times and their problems, we can move on to new strength.We shall be happy to share with you any of our resources, programs, and ideas. Our top men are available to meet either here or in London. Likewise, any thoughts you may have as to the strengthening of our community in this country or overseas would be greatly appreciated.Mrs. Feuerstein joins with me in sending to you and to Lady Wolfson our kindest personal regards.With all good wishes, I remainSincerely yours,Moses X. FeuersteinSir Isaac WolfsonWoburn HouseUpper Woburn Place, W\.C.1.London, England