B.H.
28th of Tammuz, 5722
Brooklyn, N.Y.
[July 30, 1962]

Sholom uBrocho:

I am in receipt of your letter of July 27 and the previous one, with enclosures.

It is gratifying to know that you had a pleasant return trip and a heartwarming welcome, including the many good wishes of Mazzal Tov for your daughter's Shidduch. It must have helped Mrs. Jaffe to get used to the idea that her daughter has grown up, and there is much to be grateful for in the thought that the Almighty has helped bring up such a suitable Shidduch without undue strain and worry. May G‑d continue to shower His blessings on you and yours from His open and generous Hand.

In regard to the decision by the Liverpool Kashrus Commission forbidding their caterers to accept functions of members of the Reform movement, and your inquiry as to my opinion, the situation is not very clear to me. If the above decision refers to private affairs of individuals who are members of a Reform congregation, I cannot see on what basis a Jew should be denied kashrus facilities, since all Jews, without exception, are bound to observe all Mitzvoth, including Kashrus, and it is not only the duty to enable them arrange a kosher meal, but it is also the duty to encourage them to request kosher catering. Surely there can be no differences of opinion in this regard. However, perhaps the question concerns not private affairs, but such undertakings that, if given supervision by a Dayan or Rov, might be misconstrued as to receive sanction for the Reform movement itself. In such a case, each case has to be dealt with on its merits, and it is up to the Moro d’asro to pass judgment after exploring all pertinent factors, and then, too, every effort should be made to enable Jews to eat kosher, while taking necessary precautions to avoid giving public approval of the Reform movement.

As indicated, it is up to the local Rabbonim to make a decision in each case, and my opinion is given only in general terms, in answer to your request.

With regards and prayerful wishes to all, and looking forward to continued good news,

With blessing,

M. Schneerson

I will again remember in prayer Dayan Golditch’s wife, when visiting the holy resting place of my father-in-law of saintly memory.