A few years ago we visited the Touro Synagogue, th...

A few years ago we visited the Touro Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the United States, located in Newport, Rhode Island. On August 17, 1790, the day President George Washington visited Newport, the warden or person in charge of the synagogue wrote him a letter wishing him well and expressing support for his administration. Washington wrote back on August 21, thanking him and stating words that have become the cornerstone of religious pluralism freedom in the United States: ...the Government of the United States gives to bigotry...no sanction ...to persecution no assistance ...may the children of the stock of Abraham. Who dwell in this land, continue to enjoy the good will of the other inhabitants. while everyone shall sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree and there shall be none to make him afraid... Every August, President Washington s letter is read in a ceremony with guests that have included Supreme Court Justices, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Elana Kagan. When we were there for this ceremony, the Senator or Rhode Island attended along with other important elected officials. The members of the synagogue get dressed in the clothing worn in Colonial Times. If you plan on attending, you need a ticket to enter. If you are interested, please contact the Touro Synagogue.