Cost of Religion Is Not to Exclude

The Sept. 20 article “Problem, Solution on Jewish High Holidays” creates a misconception concerning Judaism and money.

The Jewish community does not turn away due to a lack of money anyone wishing to pray. Jews are not permitted to collect money on religious holidays, such as Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur or the Sabbath.

Synagogues need money to pay the utilities, staff and the mortgage, yet they cannot solicit money during religious services as is the practice by other religious groups. The solution is membership dues and tickets for High Holidays. People who cannot afford the recommended contribution are not turned away and their names are not made public.

Most synagogues must rent larger facilities and provide extra staff during these holidays. This costs money. No church or synagogue in the United States can operate without money. Rabbis, ministers and staff have families to feed and mortgages to pay just like the rest of us.

Some people think they are entitled to free religion, yet they do not complain about spending money for a movie, food, cable TV or medical treatment.

The same people who complain the loudest about the cost of religion are not to be seen on the Sabbath or volunteering to help their local religious institution. In some circles, these people are known as freeloaders.

DARRELL NEFT

Costa Mesa

* Jews, married or single, who can afford to make a financial contribution but have the attitude that it is offensive to “pay to pray” need to grow up and face the reality that someone is paying!

Affiliation, becoming a member of a synagogue, is being a responsible Jew. Rabbis and cantors are paid professionals; buildings for services do not come free; lights, air conditioning, custodians, prayer books are not free. It is a lack of understanding and appreciation that prompts fellow Jews to say they are “irked about forking over $100 for services.”

I find it offensive that these people expect services for free and are not willing to make a contribution. Those of us who can support religious institutions financially and emotionally do so because it is our responsibility as Jews to do so.

SALLY SPIRO

Chair, Synagogue Council

Jewish Federation

of Orange County