NEW YORK – In response to the passing of Nelson Mandela, Leaders of the Rabbinical Assembly today issued the following statements:
Julie Schonfeld said,
"We mourn the loss of a great peacemaker and leader, Nelson Mandela, who passed away yesterday and whose many years of service to his country made him one of the world’s most beloved leaders. Nelson Mandela's signature contribution was demonstrating the power of and ethos of forgiveness as a political concept not only to prevent bloodshed but to bring to life the potential of a new society. Jews around the world shared with Mandela the commitment to continuing dialogue, even amidst difference, and the experience of how forgiveness and understanding can lead to the constant moral development of nations and peoples in an imperfect world.
"This week, Jews around the world read the story of Joseph, a boy betrayed by his own brothers who suffers numerous trials and unjust imprisonment. Yet he draws strength out of his trials and grows into a man who, through the act of forgiveness, saves his brothers and their families, physically as well as spiritually. We are in awe of Mandela’s emulation of such strength and principle as we see embodied in the stories of our tradition."
Gerald Skolnik, reflecting on Mandela’s leadership stated:
"Nelson Mandela’s dedication to the people of South Africa and his unceasing belief in peace underlaid a moral compass that pointed straight throughout his life. While we pray that the strife Mandela faced is never seen again on earth, we hope that his example will continue to inspire wherever humans are faced with difficulty.
"On behalf of the 1,700 Conservative rabbis of the Rabbinical Assembly, we thank Madiba for giving us strength and inspiration, and hope that the world is blessed with many people who emulate his ability to work past differences, see the best in people, and boldly advance the great projects of the human community."