ECAJ-UCA dialogue – reflections and new beginnings
The biannual dialogue meeting between the Executive Council of Australian Jewry (ECAJ) and the Uniting Church of Australia (UCA) took on new impetus last week.
After more than 30 years in existence, the ECAJ-UCA Interfaith Dialogue met without the presence of one of its founders – the late Jeremy Jones, who died last September.
The participants reflected on the role and impact Jeremy had on interfaith dialogue. Jeremy was praised for his ability to “build trust, understanding and friendship” and as someone with “energy, dynamism and passion” for interfaith dialogue. Jeremy was recognised for creating stimulating places to learn about each other’s faith and traditions, and safe places to discuss some difficult issues. Jeremy’s leading role in the Jewish community for many decades was acknowledged, as well as his work in documenting and fighting antisemitism. The group wholeheartedly honoured Jeremy and his work.
Each dialogue focuses on a religious issue. Rabbi Ninio, of Emanuel Synagogue, gave an excellent overview of Jewish mourning practices.
Reverend Tara Curlewis, a member for many years, participated for the last time, as she has taken up a role with the UCA in Rome. There she will also connect with the Rome Jewish community.
The October 7 massacre in southern Israel and the resulting trauma experienced in Jewish communities around the world, including in Australia, was also discussed, albeit briefly. It will be the focus of discussion at the next ECAJ-UCA dialogue in June.
The meeting was held on 27 February 2024 via Zoom with attendees from Sydney, Melbourne and regional towns. New co-convenors are Rabbi Ralph Genende and Reverend Matthew Wilson.
Representing the ECAJ were Peter Wertheim, Julie Nathan, Rabbi Jeffrey Kamins, Rabbi Jacki Ninio, Rabbi Ralph Genende, and Melinda Jones.
Representing the UCA were Rev. Tara Curlewis, Rev. Dr. Matthew Wilson, Rev. Dr. Rob McFarlane, Ed Carter, and Rev. Dr. Sunny Chen.
