Jews & Lutherans: More Alike than Different

May 24, 2011 - PRLog -- Martin Luther's anti-Jewish statements have long created divisions between Jews and Lutherans. But things have changed in recent decades as the Lutheran leadership has sought to become more inclusive and has denounced the comments of the religion's founder.  California Lutheran University president Chris Kimball, Ph.D., and Rabbi Michael Lotker of Temple Ner Ami will share their insights on the modern and historical relationship of the two religions in “Jews and Lutherans: More Alike than Different.” The free event will be held 7 to 8:30 p.m., June 2, at Temple Ner Ami, 515 Temple Ave., Camarillo. It is open to anyone interested in attending.
   CLU President Emeritus Howard Wennes will give introductory remarks on the history of Jewish-Lutheran relations. Lotker and Kimball will discuss the history of each faith and the many similarities between the two. Lotker, author of A Christian's Guide to Judaism (Paulist Press, 2004), will describe how the two faiths can move forward as one community. Kimball will present the many opportunities for Jewish students at CLU. Time will be set aside for questions and answers, and refreshments will be served.
   “This outreach program will enable us to learn more about each other’s history, theology and practices. By discovering our similarities rather than dwelling on our differences we can form not only acceptance but friendships as well,” said Kimball.
   The president of CLU since 2008, Kimball is a widely published author and speaker on academic affairs. He is highly regarded in academic circles and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America university network for his deep understanding of Lutheran higher education. Kimball received his master’s and doctorate degrees in history.
   Lotker has been the rabbi of the reform Jewish congregation Temple Ner Ami since 2003. He is currently researching a book about Christianity from a Jewish perspective. Lotker has master’s degrees in Hebrew letters and physics.
   Founded in 1959, California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks is a diverse scholarly community dedicated to excellence in the liberal arts and professional studies. CLU offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in the liberal arts and sciences and professional fields. Originating from 39 states and 56 countries, CLU’s student body represents a diversity of faiths and cultures. CLU is a place that values religion in life and affords opportunity for religious practice in an environment of free inquiry. For more information, visit www.callutheran.edu.