Building friendships

Editor: The world stands at the brink of war. The efforts of terrorists determined to wreak havoc, chaos and misery on the world are increasing. It is more important than ever to stand together in friendship and speak out clearly. Canada must be not be allowed to be a haven for terrorist cells. Something must be done.

The Jewish and Christian Friendship Circle has made a very small beginning. It has the potential for being so much more. Our members have and are writing letters to government officials, members of parliament and our local B.C. government. We cannot do it alone. We want to inform, enlist and gather people in meeting places to forge a more influential group. We ask you to join us.

Terrorism in all its forms is deadly. There is no justification for killing innocent people. Misguided apologists for the terrorist suicide bombings in Israel can no longer hide behind their blinders. Attacks against Israeli citizens are no different from the cruel killings that took place in Spain. And yet the United Nations stands firm in its willingness to chastise and isolate the only vibrant democracy in the Middle East. Our own Canadian government has vacillated and the publicly supported CBC rarely reports the full story of Israeli defence efforts.

Anti-Semitism is merely a way to divide people, to create fictional monsters and plant fear in people's hearts. History has shown it is only the first step in the dehumanizing of society... its consequences bode no good for anyone. As a free people with respect for the dignity of all humankind, we are obliged to act now before the world is engulfed in flames once again.

The Jewish and Chrisitan Friendship Circle is seeking to build bridges to establish firm, friendly, mutually understanding Jewish-Christian relationships. We are eager to speak to synagogue and church groups in the effort to forge closer ties and encourage more action.

Sally Rogow and Jean Bergeron
Co-chairs of Jewish and Christian Friendship Circle