Remembrance of Nostra Aetate
October 28 -30, 2005
October 28, 1965. Pope Paul VI promulgates a document of the Second Vatican Council titled Nostra Aetate (In Our Time). A declaration on the relation of the church to non-Christian religions.
October 28, 2005. In commemoration of the 40th anniversary of Nostra Aetate, Fr. Joseph Donnelly, pastor of Sacred Heart Church speaks to the congregation of B'nai Israel Synagogue in Southbury.
October 29 - 30, 2005. In commemoration of the 40th anniversary of Nostra Aetate, Rabbi Eric Polokoff, of B'nai Israel Synagogue in Southbury speaks at the Masses of the weekend.
What follows is a brief photo and text story of that memorable weekend. Click here to be able to listen to both talks, or to view a text version of both adresses. Scroll down the page to the 31st Sunday of Ordinary Time (October 28 - 30, 2005) for the links.
Central to the sanctuary of the Synagogue is the arc, containing the Torah scrolls.
Known about town as the "God Squad", Rabbi Polokoff and Fr. Donnelly had a few moments together before the start of Shabbat services on Friday night.
Fr. Donnelly and Rabbi Polokoff sharing the pulpit at B'nai Israel.
After the services at B'nai Israel, there was a reception to greet those attending. Many members of Sacred Heart attended, as well as members of B'nai Israel.
A good time was had by all. Good food, fellowship, and a chance to reflect on the service just concluded.
The following days found Rabbi Polokoff addressing the assembled Catholic community at Sacred Heart. And joining the celebration were many members of Rabbi Polokoff's congregation. Welcome one and all.
Part of the congregation listening to Rabbi Polokoff.
After Mass, there was an opportunity to say hello, and thank the Rabbi for bringing his unique perspective to the subject of Jewish-Catholic relations.
Rabbi Polokoff, of course, had to speak at four Masses, while Fr. Joe got the easy assignment, of only speaking once at the evening service at the Synagogue. Here Deacon Chuck, Rabbi Polokoff, and Fr. Ddonnelly prepare to start the 9:00 Mass.
Rabbi Polokoff was present for the whole Mass, including the sending of the children to the Liturgy of the Word for Children. Here Fr. Joe prays over the children before sending them to their own age appropriate Liturgy of the Word.
Fr. Donnelly had an opportunity to introduce Rabbi Polokoff, and to explain the growth we have experienced since Nostra Aetatre was issued.
The Rabbi spoke to a church building that was full of people eager to hear his thoughts.
Fr. Joe was among those who were please that this weekend happened.
After Mass, and more opportunity to greet the Rabbi, and express delight at the growth in our understanding of each other.
Lots of members of both congregations there to lend support.
Including the choir, who lined up as a group to thank the Rabbi for his visit.
The Rabbi must have been tired after shaking so many hands. But he never showed anything but enthusiasm for meeting the many people there.
And special thanks to Fr. Donnelly for reminding us that we are not so different after all.