“The primary phrases within the Invoice of Rights are the flexibility of all people to have the free train of faith,” stated Borough President Fossella at a press convention outdoors of Younger Israel of Staten Island in Willowbrook. “These are the very first rights embodied within the U.S. Structure earlier than the rest.”
He spoke of the arrival of the Pilgrims who left England to hunt non secular freedom.
“They got here collectively, and round this time of 12 months, they celebrated a harvest to provide thanks and gratitude for all of the blessings of their life,” stated Borough President Fossella. “Nothing has actually modified in these previous couple of hundred years. We nonetheless give thanks and specific gratitude for dwelling within the best nation on the earth, largely as a result of we’re free to train no matter faith we wish.”
The press convention was held in response to a rising wave of anti-Semitism and spiritual intolerance throughout the nation, together with an anti-Israeli protest outdoors of the Park East Manhattan Synagogue on Nov. 19. The protestors used anti-Semitic and incendiary language.
“What occurred the opposite day up on the East Facet of Manhattan at that synagogue is unacceptable and it’s not to be tolerated,” stated District Legal professional McMahon. “Persons are merely going about their American proper. Nevertheless it’s greater than that, it’s a human proper. To observe their faith and specific their faith, no matter it’s, and that’s one thing we have now to face up for each day when somebody threatens that.”
The non secular leaders echoed the theme of concord for worshippers of all faiths.
“It doesn’t matter what side of our religions we need to have fun, it ought to be allowed to be accomplished in peace and concord and all people taking some pleasure in what others do as effectively,” stated Monsignor William Belford, pastor of St. Teresa of the Toddler Jesus Roman Catholic Church in Castleton Corners. “I communicate for our Catholic monks and folks in saying no hatred is allowed, solely peace and pleasure.”
