At the start of the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, our six bishops have sent a greeting to all Jews in the region.
The message thanks them for “the positive contribution that so many Jewish people have made to our region”, and, with the continuing threat of anti-Semitism, assures them of their commitment “to stand against all expressions of hatred and prejudice that tear at the fabric of our common life”.
The message reads:
To Jewish friends and colleagues on the occasion of Rosh Hashanah 2015/5776,
As the High Holy Days come around again, we send our warm greetings to you at the start of this New Year in your calendar, and prayers for the year ahead.
At this time when we are so aware of refugees and migrants around the world, we are grateful for the positive contribution that so many Jewish people have made to our region. Whether fleeing from persecution or enabling the growth of trade, Jewish people have made homes here in West Yorkshire, ‘sought the shalom’ of our shared cities, towns and villages and enriched our communities.
Earlier this year, we commemorated the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the death camps at Auschwitz-Birkenau. We are aware of the continuing menace of anti-Semitism, also here in this region, and assure you of our commitment to stand against all expressions of hatred and prejudice that tear at the fabric of our common life.
May these days be richly blessed! Shanah Tovah!
Rt Revd Nick Baines, Bishop of Leeds (Diocesan Bishop)
Rt Revd Toby Howarth, Bishop of Bradford
Rt Revd Tony Robinson, Bishop of Wakefield
Rt Revd Jonathan Gibbs, Bishop of Huddersfield
Rt Revd James Bell, Bishop of Ripon
Rt Revd Paul Slater, Bishop of Richmond
The two-day festival begins at sundown today (Sunday).