A Message From Yechezkel Katz, Executive Director, UJCARE

The following was submitted to YWN from the executive director of UJCARE. It must be noted, that YWN spoke with the board at UJCARE, and told us that this was written & publicized on the Internet without the organizations permission:

As Aharon HaKohen did, I delve where I have no business delving. I am no Aharon HaKohen; I do not profess to be, not even close. And I am sure many a blogger will remind me of that once this is posted. But I feel just as strongly about the issues that tear us apart that I need to speak out. That of which I speak can be applied to any two individuals or group or any community, but I focus now on a particular issue so close to my heart.

A condition of my acceptance of this position was not to be confrontational or adversarial. I was to build an organization that would serve those in need in the capacity to which I was accustomed. Certainly, I had no interest in being part of any propaganda or any street wars that were to ensue within the communities I was to represent and serve. Unfortunately, I am engulfed.

Now I serve UJCARE. At UJCARE, I serve alongside the well-respected Rabbi Leib Glanz, an Askan, a servant of the community who will go to any length to help another Jew.

I have no intention of competing with UJO or Rabbi Niederman. I believe that the need in the community is so great, that no one organization serves all. But the war between the sides portrays the other as the rival. No matter how much UJCARE accomplishes within the short time since they were established, all reports of their achievements are claimed to be exaggerated and they are denied the right to exist. On the other hand, claims against the UJO, with their 35 years of experience are that they have nothing to show for it, leaving a very dissatisfied community.

I am no Aharon HaKohen. I am no Talmid Chochom. I am no Reb Ahron. I am no Reb Zalmen. So how dare I lecture? How dare I preach Mussar to the Rebbes?

Each side boasts how powerful they are and they are confident they will win this fight. Well, just imagine if we unite those powers. What can we accomplish then?

The Rebbes have the power. I beg you. I implore you. I beseech you. Tell your armies to lay down their weapons. Find a way to resolve your differences and mend the wounds of your communities.

It is time to stop it!

Dear Rebbes, I beg you. I implore you. I beseech you. Tell your armies to lay down their weapons. Find a way to resolve your differences and mend the wounds of your communities.

Kol Tuv.