Obama Taps Reform Rabbi For International Religious Freedom Post

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david-sapersteinPresident Barack Obama has nominated Rabbi David Nathan Saperstein to fill the post of U.S. ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom at the State Department. If confirmed, Saperstein would be the non-Christian told hold the post.

“I am grateful that Rabbi Saperstein has chosen to dedicate his talent to serving the American people at this important time for our country,” Obama said. “I look forward to working with him in the months and years ahead.”

Saperstein, 66, has headed the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism for 30 years and teaches law at Georgetown University. He previously served as a member of the President’s Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships from 2010-2011 and served on the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom from 1999-2001. He was also named by Newsweek Magazine as the most influential rabbi in America in 2009.

The ambassadorial position, which has been vacant for nearly a year, was created in 1998 to monitor religious freedom and abuses around the world.

Saperstein now faces confirmation in the U.S. Senate, where some conservatives have voiced concerns over his liberal-minded views, including comments he made concerning the recent Supreme Court decision on Hobby Lobby.

JNS.ORG

{Matzav.com Newscenter}


5 COMMENTS

  1. You can be sure that not too long after Gaza quiets down rabbi Saperstein will be pressuring Israel on pluralism – woman rabbis – reform conversions to Judaism and a whole host of other problematic issues.

    Its the “nine days” and one must be extra careful not to be hateful – but ask yourself this question.

    The people close to Mr. Obama made or help make the choice of Saperstein.

    He is trouble with a capital T and should NOT be approved by the Senate.

    He does not represent the best interests of the jewish community at all.

  2. its funny (but truly sad) that perhaps in Obamas attempt to court the Jews and look good for doing so

    he is actually to more harm and no good to the Jewish community

    IMO this role would be better filled by anyone else other then a NON JEWISH jew

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