Vicar against antisemitism

Father John Baldock, vicar of Christ Church South Yarra recently met with St Kilda Shule’s Rabbi Yaakov Glasman to express his support for and friendship with the Jewish community.

Christ Church South Yarra is an Anglican parish that values liturgy, scripture, reason and an inclusive community.

Baldock has spent many years working full-time in interfaith relations, believing that shared peace and stability should never be taken for granted in this country.

“It has come as a great shock to me to witness such an alarming rise in anti-Jewish attacks since the horrific events of October 7 last year. I can only begin to imagine how distressing and profoundly hurtful this must be felt in your community,” he said.

“My faith calls me to love my neighbours and to strive for peace.

“I am very conscious that Christians have often failed terribly in defending and protecting Jewish people and how important it is then to stand against those who proclaim hate and promote antisemitism. It is an affront to the God who loves us all.”

At the evening service on Sunday, July 21, the Christ Church choir will sing the psalm “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem”.

The psalm’s words “May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels” could be heard as a prayer at this time.

Baldock assured Rabbi Glasman of his personal support and solidarity with St Kilda Shule’s congregation and pledged the Christ Church congregation’s love and respect for its Jewish neighbours.

“Times at the moment are indeed challenging,” Rabbi Glasman said in reply.

“Many Jewish people in Melbourne have been subjected to differing levels of intimidatory comments or behaviours. It has been a most unsettling time for our community.

“It is for that reason especially that gestures of support and friendship from faith leaders like you are so deeply appreciated.”

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