In response to reports that multiple bomb threats have been called in to Jewish Community Centers in multiple States, the members of the Metuchen-Edison Area Interfaith Clergy Association denounce such threats and fear-making as cowardly acts in flagrant disregard of the protected religious freedoms we all share. These threats not only disrupt our society’s peace and order, but also victimize members of a peaceful faith tradition whose goodwill includes making community life and learning opportunities available for all people.
We affirm the words of our nation’s first President, “The government of the United States, which gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance, requires only that they who live under its protection should demean themselves as good citizens, in giving it on all occasions their effectual support…May the children of the stock of Abraham, who dwell in this land, continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other inhabitants while everyone shall sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree* and there shall be none to make him afraid.” (Aug.17, 1790, in a letter to the Hebrew Congregation of Newport).
*a reference to 1 Kings 4:25, an image Washington often used as symbolic of the peace and safety our country enjoys.
Rev. Ellen Clark Clemot
Treasurer/Recording Secretary
Metuchen-Edison Area Interfaith Clergy Association
