Resolutions 2003

Whereas Jews converted by the Bet Din of the Masorti Movement in Buenos Aires suffer discrimination by the authorities of the Asociacion Mutual Argentina – AMIA; and

Whereas there is no member of the Rabbinical Assembly represented in the AMIA, despite its claim to be the umbrella institution for Argentinean Jewry, and in spite of its support by Masorti synagogues.

Therefore be it resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly urge the AMIA to change its policy to reflect pluralism in accordance with the spirit of its founders - to serve the entire Jewish community; and

Whereas the members of the Rabbinical Assembly are greatly concerned by the persistence and resurgence of anti-Semitism around the world; and

Whereas in the Middle East, leaders have failed to speak out against false and incendiary allegations such as the infamous blood libel, Holocaust denial, and comparisons of Israel and Israeli leaders to Nazis; and

Whereas the strength of the Conservative/Masorti Movement lies in serving Jewish communities the world over;

Whereas Masorti Olami (the World Council) has embarked upon a vigorous campaign to expand Conservative Masorti communities in Europe and Australia, and to strengthen existing communities in Latin America; and

Whereas there is a need for rabbinic leadership, religious educators, and increased financing to support these efforts.

Therefore be it resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly:

Whereas the State of Israel is the spiritual homeland of the Jewish People;

Whereas the citizens of Israel find themselves under physical attack on a daily basis;

Whereas the Rabbinical Assembly stands with the State of Israel and with its people in these troubled times as always;

Rabbi Yose HaGalili says, "How meritorious is peace?  Even in time of war Jewish law requires that one initiate discussions of peace." (Leviticus Rabbah, Tzav 9 ).

Whereas the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries are currently engaged in armed conflict with Iraq;

Whereas Judaism affirms the permissibility of war as a response to life-threatening aggression, current or anticipated;

Whereas Judaism also affirms the supreme value of peace and peacemaking;

Whereas the economic crisis in the Argentinean economy has resulted in the disappearance of almost the entire middle class, including the Jewish middle class;

Whereas 750.000 jobs were lost between October 2001 and December 2002, and 162,000 small businesses closed during 2002 with domestic investment falling by 46%;

Whereas according to the Joint Distribution Committee, 1,500 people are joining different welfare relief programs every month totalling at least 34,524 people by the end of 2002; 

Whereas studies of the Conservative Movement have indicated an increasing interest and involvement in learning and observance on the part of those affiliated with Conservative congregations, school, camps and other institutions; and

Whereas every arm of the Conservative Movement provides significant and valuable educational opportunities which are to be applauded.

Therefore be it resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly through its Joint Committee on Adult Learning coordinate and provide: