Controversy Over Menorah Display

Hopefully, cooler heads in the Jewish community will prevail and support U.S. District Judge Terry J. Hatter’s decision--in keeping with the 1989 decision of the U.S. Supreme Court--that the Hanukkah menorah “could be together (with the Christmas tree) in display of religious tolerance,” (Metro, Dec. 14).

That Chabad has been “violating” the separation clause is the admission by “Rabbi Boruch Hecht’s promise that no blessings would be recited over the menorah.” Such a “blessing” belongs in the home and synagogue, as would any religious service around the Christmas tree, or any other religious ornament, on public property.

I hope Chabad leaders would not go forward with the announced Hanukkah party at the menorah site. It might pass muster, regarding the separation clause, if open to the general public and sponsored by Parks and Recreation.

HYMAN H. HAVES

Pacific Palisades