U.S. Reform Rabbis Criticize Israel.

By IsraelWire

A delegation of 33 visiting American Reform rabbis have expressed disappointment over Israel's lack of concern for the religious feelings of many of America's Jews. The Reform rabbis came to Israel seeking explanations as to why the Knesset passed the Religious Councils

After meeting with Israeli lawmakers and a candidate for prime minister, the American rabbis said Israeli politicians failed to grasp their concerns about religious freedom and may pay for it with reduced financial and political support. "There's still a fundamental lack of understanding of what our issues really are," said Rabbi Janet Liss of Glen Cove, NY.

The law, which passed by one vote, calls for Reform and Conservative representatives seeking seats on local religious councils to pledge allegiance to the Orthodox chief rabbis.

The councils are local administrative bodies that disburse government funds to build and maintain synagogues, supervise the supply of kosher food and provide other religious services.

Reform and Conservative representatives have objected to the bill because it means pledging devotion to Orthodox rabbis who don't recognize the liberal streams of Judaism.

After last week's vote, the Reform and Conservative movements sent letters to their followers urging them not to support Israeli politicians who voted for the bill. American Jews are expected to contribute millions to candidates in Israel's May 17 national elections.