Love us or hate us ? (part 10)

Submitted by saltysteve on Thu, 05/21/2009 - 17:13

7. Lewis Way

Here was another product of the religious awakening of the nineteenth century. Although this man was well off and a member of a respected and prominent family the main part of Lewis Way's life was spent on one single purpose, the restoration of Israel.

In 1817 he made an extensive journey through Europe at his own expense, visiting Holland, Germany, Russia and Poland. On the reports he made to his missionary society, the Church Ministry to the Jews, missions were opened in Poland, Holland and Germany.

When in Russia he met the Emperor, Alexander I, with the express intention of reminding Russia of her 'Christian' duty to help restore the Jewish people to their homeland - ironically the subsequent treatment of Jews by the Russian people, through state-sponsored pogroms, did drive out many, though not just to the promised land, but also to Britain and America and other places.

In 1821 he placed his country home at the disposal of his missionary society, as a training school for Jewish Christians. In 1840 he died and was eulogised by a later historian thus, "The best earthly friend whom Almighty God has vouchsafed to the Society. God raised him up for this great work and furnished him with all the talents which it required; learning, genius, wealth, fervent piety and a heart overflowing with love for His ancient people".

Home » A Tapestry of Gefilte Fish