Timely Talk
Participant Responses
Dr. Adam Gregerman
During times of upheaval in Jewish-Christian relations, one of the underlying tensions that I often sense bubbling just below the surface for many Jews is the struggle to offer a balanced response. Though seldom faced directly, this tension complicates efforts to achieve two (perhaps competing) goals: Jews' desire to frankly express their criticisms and disappointments to Christians (in this case, Catholics), and also their desire that such criticisms be received sympathetically and without further damaging the relationship. Both desires are undoubtedly valid. The first reveals a powerful, universal need that one's own concerns be heard, especially on issues that are troubling for the Jewish community. Importantly, that Jews have been willing to express their disappointment and even anger reflects a deep level of trust built up over decades of both formal and informal contacts with Christian friends and colleagues. It also reflects optimism that their views may encourage desired changes. The second goal, however, can complicate the first goal. It is never easy, for either an individual or an institution, to hear criticism, even well-meaning criticism. Many naturally become defensive. In the case of the relationship between Jews and Christians, this natural reluctance is potentially increased both because the criticisms of outsiders (in this case, Jews) can be even less welcome, and because there seems to be an underlying sense of fragility in a still-young relationship.
During presentations and discussion at the event, the first goal was prominent. Jewish speakers, in line with many Jewish organizations and community leaders, clearly expressed their disappointment and frustration, and endorsed the need to register this. One questioner, however, helpfully raised a concern about the effects of such criticisms on Jewish-Catholic relationships. I was glad this issue was highlighted, because I believe that these effects are sometimes overlooked, despite the possibility of provoking a negative reaction from Catholics. I'd therefore like to see this issue receive more attention, for it directly impacts Jews' short- and long-term goals, namely, an acceptable solution to the recent controversy over the Lefebvrist priests, and a strong Jewish-Catholic relationship. In particular, I'd encourage us to consider how Jewish criticisms have been received in the past. Were “quieter” interventions more successful, or were popular, broad expressions of disappointment helpful in achieving desired ends? How were Jewish-Catholic relations affected by prior disputes, and what lessons might be learned from them? While such seemingly "political" considerations need not influence all Jewish responses, I would also like to expand the discussion to consider the effects of the Jewish responses on achieving all of these important goals.
