AN INVITATION TO SIGN THIS APPEAL AND COMMITMENT

February 25, 2004

On February 24, 2004, the leaders of 10 religious and community groups, including the Center for Christian-Jewish Learning at Boston College, signed A Call to Understanding. It is not a statement about Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ. It is a statement about the discussion around the film. It seeks to ensure that the spirit of mutual understanding and respect among Christians and Jews that has developed over the last four decades will not be lost in the heated discussion that has emerged over Gibson’s movie.

A Call to Understanding presents considerations and guidelines for both Christians and Jews to observe during the upcoming holy season and in light of the concern and controversy stemming from Mel Gibson’s portrayal of Jesus’ Passion. It emphasizes the willingness by many Christians and Jews to be mutually enriched by each other’s traditions, resulting in an openness that has replaced older habits of suspicion and avoidance. Those Jews and Christians who have entered into dialogue with one another have experienced deepened understandings of their own religious traditions as well as that of the other.

As a signatory to A Call to Understanding, you will join a group of leaders who are committed to perpetuating this work. We only ask that you share this document with your community and take active steps to implement its purpose. Our group will be adding the names of religious and community leaders who sign the declaration through March 15th. Shortly thereafter, we will issue a public statement listing all the names and institutions that have joined with us in this message of understanding and respect. We invite people from everywhere to join in this commitment to interfaith amity.

Anyone without email access may send the above information to NE ADL, 40 Court Street, Boston, MA 02108.

Your consideration and support will be greatly appreciated. Thank you.