Thank you for Jewish community’s support of Arts & Faith St. Louis

The Jewish community played a central role in the successful efforts which made the 2001 production of the opera “The Death of Klinghoffer” in St. Louis an opportunity for building understanding and bridging divides. These efforts were the inspiration for Arts & Faith St. Louis, which began on the 10th anniversary of 9/11.  That interfaith commemoration in music at The Sheldon Concert Hall has become an annual event, presented to capacity audiences each year. 

 

The 2016 concert, which marked the 15^th anniversary of 9/11, focused on youth, with performances by young people reflecting the religious, racial and ethnic diversity of our community. It also featured videos created by young people conveying their thoughts on how to build a harmonious St. Louis

Arts & Faith is grateful for the ongoing support by the Jewish community. The Michael and Barbara Newmark Institute for Human Relations at the Jewish Community Relations Council was a founding organization of Arts & Faith and continues as a sponsor. The Jewish Federation has been an active supporter from the beginning.

The Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School’s choir, masterfully directed by Betti Blumoff, beautifully represented the Jewish community in this year’s musical program with a moving rendition of a song for peace.

“Faith and Friendship”, the heartwarming video submission by Shoshana Williams and Ayesha Wahidi, participants in JAM, the Sidney and Anna Frager Jewish/Muslim Teen Dialogue Group, was featured at the concert.

And, Rabbi Howard Kaplansky, former chair of the Newmark Institute, Rabbi Emeritus at United Hebrew Congregation, again provided a meaningful and moving benediction.

To all who participated in the planning, to all who participated in the program, and to all who attended the event, thank you for your part in providing a unique and important opportunity for reflection, unity, and peace. 

Carolyn Losos

Chair, Arts & Faith St. Louis

 

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