Ibbetson Street Press Author Susie Davidson Brings “In Gratitude and Hope” to the German-Jewish communities.

( Vorwerk -- Right)


Ibbetson Street Press Author Susie Davidson Brings “In Gratitude and Hope” to the German-Jewish communities.

By Doug Holder

The Ibbetson Street Press of Somerville has released a collection of remarks titled: “In Gratitude and Hope,” made to the Boston-area Jewish community by former German Consul to Boston Wolfgang K. Vorwerk. Vorwerk who was Consul from 2004 to June 2008 was asked to speak at the annual Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) services at Faneuil Hall in Boston in 2005. During his tenure Vorwerk has reached out to the Jewish community. Vorwerk made presentations at Temple Israel in Boston, Temple Shalom in Newton, Mass, House of Representatives, State House, Boston, Mass., and other forums. He facilitated German/Jewish dialogue; spoke to Holocaust survivors, Nazi resistors, and the general community-at-large. Vorwerk has also helped with the funding of several Holocaust-related initiatives.

In response to requests Jewish Advocate journalist and editor of the Holocaust anthology “I Refused to Die…,” ( Ibbetson Street) Susie Davidson has edited and annotated a collection of the former Consul’s remarks. This 93 page book includes photos, a foreword by Vorwerk, and a speech by German Chancellor Angela Merkel before the Knesset in Israel, among other highlights.

Vorwerk has displayed much sensitivity to the Jewish community. The Consul is well aware that some segments of the Jewish community harbor anger towards Germans and Germany. Vorwerk emphasizes past issues do not have to render all parties mute. In his own remarks he recalls his own struggle with the past, and the responsibility left to all Germans today.

The book was given out to Holocaust survivor community members at a June 22, 2008 luncheon at Temple Emeth in Chestnut Hill. Vorwerk, Davidson are convinced that that the book will leave behind a deep and lasting historic impression for the community, and many generations to come.

Copies can be purchased through the Ibbetson Street Press: http://www.ibbetsonpress.com contact 617-628-2313

And:

German Consulate pr-ioo@bost.diplo.de 617-369-4917