The Movement for Reform Judaism

In response, Rabbi Yoffie has said: “We note that most of Israel’s current leadership and past leadership have not hesitated to use this title. Use of the title does not constitute acceptance of our religious point of view, we neither request nor require such acceptance. Use of the title ‘rabbi’, however, is appropriate and essential because it indicates that the president is showing respect and concern for the religious sensitivities of millions of Jews throughout the world. We see the presidency as a symbol of unity for the entire Jewish people.

“We note, furthermore that President Katsav during his tenure has made special efforts to reach out to all segments of world Jewry; for that reason his failure to use the title ‘rabbi’ when addressing our rabbis, which is profoundly hurtful and offensive to our membership, is therefore all the more surprising.

“We urge the president to reconsider his position on this important matter. We would hope that President Katsav would agree to call all Liberal, Reform and Conservative rabbis by the title ‘rabbi’.”

The British Reform Movement totally supports Rabbi Yoffie. “This episode should be regarded as an aberration,” said Reform Chief Executive, Rabbi Tony Bayfield. “It is not what we expect of the political leadership of Israel, and it is not what we experience in Britain. The situation is completely at odds with the interests of the Jewish people.”

For further details, please contact:
Andrea Newman, Movement for Reform Judaism Public Relations Officer

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