America's Largest Catholic Newspaper
Cardinal Dolan’s award from the American Jewish Committee (CNY, Nov. 12) was another great sign of unity in our world torn by hatred. While the cardinal stated that the Catholic and Jewish dialogue “is probably stronger today than it’s ever been,” and that “religion, by its nature, affirms and strengthens everything that is noble, sacred, life-giving and unitive in the human project,” I would like to see more interaction on local levels between Jewish and Catholic congregations.
Is it possible to have specific parishes and synagogues uniting in various ways, interlocking our faiths through spiritual and other tangible undertakings? Establishing a joint committee may lead to some wonderful ideas and events. There could be a sharing of experiences, problems and resolutions on a community level, joint fund-raising efforts for local nonprofit organizations, a student exchange or even having an Old Testament course taught by a Jewish scholar. There is too great a hidden treasure between our faiths to go untapped.
Glenn Slaby
New Rochelle
