Barton County democrat. [volume] (Great Bend, Kan.) 1885-1915, 1898-11-18
TEMPLE BETH ELoHIM. WASHINGTON. D. C.

lutes not only "a peculiar people" but
a socially unfortunate people. The
Japhetic races have always been in
clined to ostracise the Jews socially,
while taking every advantage of the
wonderful abilities of the leading mem
bers of that race in the world of finance
and statecraft. In the United States
alone, of all coun tries, the Hebrew citi-
zens are accepted on terms of social
equality and always receive the consid-
Grafton which is due to them.
The magnificent Temple Beth Eio-
him, which has recently been complet-
ed, was formally dedicated with elab-
crate and impressive ceremonies. IN
cluded in the assemblage were the lead
ing members of the faith of not only
this city, but also of other cities. Many
prominent Gentiles were also present.
representing both clerical and business
circles, and Christian minister, Rev.
Is. A DUNN. the assistant pastor of the
First Congregational church, pro-
nounced the benediction which dis
missed the great gathering at the close
of the Sabbath eve services, which fol
lowed the formal dedicatory exercises.
The dedicatory services were unusual
~ Impressive anu bcdull1 uls anu COnlia
ued from four o'clock until seven
o'clock, when the Sabbath eve eXer-
cises were rendered. A feature of the
occasion was the music, which was rem
dered by the regular choir of the
church. augmented by several voices,
under the direction of Prof. Walther,
the new organ designed by him being
used with magnificent effect.
1t was a proud day for Rev. L. Stern.
the pastor OF the congrega ton, who
has presided over it for 20 years, and
it was not less proud day for the He
brews of the capital city of the nation,
as they realize that they have now
house of worship which not only adds
materially to the architectural beauty
of the city, but contributes another
beautiful house to those of that faith
in the country.
After the introduction and the sing
ing of an anthem, Psalm 100, ''Koriu,"
was rendered by the choir, and then
followed a procession of ministers
scroll bearers. officers of the congrega-
ton. building committee, key bearers
and past presidents of the congrega-
ton. ''Sh'm Yisroel" was next rem
dered. and then followed the delivery
Of the key of the temple to the chair
man Of the building committee by little
Miss Ray Hahn. assisted by Misses
Sondheimer and Harris. The singing
of America" by the choir and congre-
CATION was the last of the ceremonies.
Mr.. Hahn. after receiving the key from
the hands of his little daughter. pre-
scented the building to Mr.. Blout. say
ing:
After months OF laborious and often per-
picking work feel proud In presenting TO
you the keys of this beautiful new tenn
pie, and with 1t transfer to your keeping
this building, with the construction of
which you fntrusted my colleagues Of the
building committee and my humble SELF
some Is months ago.
1t is g well-known historical fact that the
culture and progress of a nation can best
be judged by the character of its houses
of public worship. With the limited means
at our command we have tried to construct
for You q building which Is thoroughly in
keeping with the spirit of this progressive
age II we have succeeded In shaping
stone. wood and iron into an edifice which
is not only satisfactory TO the members
Of this congregation. but which may be