With regard to the recent Chronicle articles on “Messianic Jews” (Editor’s Desk in the Aug. 19 issue, plus letters in the Sept. 2, 9 and 16 issues), I would like to add four points to help clarify the matter.
First, any reference made to first century Christianity is not germane to today’s discussion. Yes, Jesus and his first followers were Jews, but Christianity as a formal religion was just beginning to emerge. In today’s world, we are talking about those who erroneously believe that one can be defined as both Christian and Jew.
Second, it is always commendable when one studies about different faiths in an attempt to gain greater awareness and understanding. Jews today are woefully undereducated about Christianity, and we would all be better served by learning more about our neighbors.
But there is a huge difference between educating oneself for the sake of knowledge, and attempting to adopt customs or beliefs from another faith tradition and then claim them as your own. This type of disingenuous behavior shows little respect for the faith of the other.
Third, mainline Christians and Jews alike will agree that the two faiths are mutually exclusive. Yes, some sacred texts are common to both faiths, and we embrace and celebrate shared values.
However, the central tenet of Christianity holds that Jesus is the Messiah, and only through that belief may Christians find redemption.
For Jews, the same does not hold true. Judaism does not accept Jesus as the Messiah and we do not seek redemption through him.
This is a fundamental distinction between our faiths, and we need to clearly recognize and acknowledge that. Those who attempt to diminish the differences and blur the lines do a disservice to both religions.
Finally, we cannot and should not be shy about speaking against those who wish to convert Jews or claim to identify as members of both faith communities, regardless of how “respectful” they may appear.
At the heart of interfaith relations is the opportunity for Jews and Christians to bear witness to their respective experiences of God. This means learning about Judaism and Christianity in authentic ways.
Since Vatican II especially, Christians and Jews have become much more aware of these distinctions and much more educated about those beliefs we hold in common and, of course, about those which separate us.
Today, Christians and Jews visit each other’s congregations, participate in dialogue groups, and study together in an attempt to create avenues for greater understanding.
In Milwaukee, we are most fortunate that there are Jewish educators who are invited to teach courses at Catholic seminaries so that future priests and lay ministers have a clear and true understanding of Jews and Judaism.
But let us be clear about the boundaries that should never be crossed. It is only through open and honest dialogue that we can clearly understand and affirm the importance of faith in all of our lives.
Rabbi Marc Berkson is spiritual leader of Congregation Emanu-El B’ne Jeshurun.
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