SENT BY FAX AND E-MAIL

March 27, 2000

TO:
 JCPA Member Agencies
FROM:
 Karen Senter, Assistant Executive Vice Chair, Leebie Mallin, Program Associate
RE:
 Christian Missionary Film

Please be advised that a made-for-TV movie entitled "The Rabbi," which so far has been advertised in over 80 Jewish newspapers, and which was broadcast nationwide this weekend, was in fact produced by a Christian missionary organization. While the film appears to portray the story of an Israeli rabbi struggling with modernity, it concludes with the rabbi’s decision to convert to Christianity. Jewish newspapers unknowingly ran the ad promoting the film, which makes no reference to the film’s producer -- Morris Cerillo World Evangelism -- and which deceptively portrays a bearded man in a skullcap holding a prayer-book and leaning against the Western Wall.

The film will likely be re-broadcast in the weeks and months ahead. Additional advertisements may also appear in Jewish newspapers not yet aware of this deception. You are therefore urged to share this information with the publisher of your Jewish newspaper and to alert members of your local community regarding the true nature of this film.

Enclosed are background materials provided by Dr. Philip Abramowitz, Director of the Task Force on Missionaries and Cults of the New York JCRC.

Please keep us informed of any local developments regarding this issue. As always, you are encouraged to consult with the JCPA if you have any questions or need further assistance.