Jews for Judaism is an international outreach and counter missionary organisation, dedicated to countering the deceptive efforts of missionaries in their attempt to convert Jews. The South African branch of Jews for Judaism was incorporated into the UOS in 1998. Although housed in the UOS, it is not funded by the UOS (with the exception of an annual allowance of R20,000). Given the limited resources, most of our work during the period under review has been reactive, as opposed to proactive.

Although much of our work has been ‘under the radar’, Jews for Judaism continues to perform an invaluable service in our community. Throughout the years under review, several families and individuals have approached the office with concerns about relatives who have been in contact with missionaries and evangelical churches. These families and affected individuals have all been met and counselled by either Darryl Frankel or Darren Sevitz. Where necessary follow up with local Jewish Community Services have been established. Counselling takes place on an on-going basis, with Darren dedicating his Tuesday nights to counselling and teaching, and Darryl working with affected families and individuals.

We are regularly called to deal with overt missionizing, such as Jews for Jesus on university Campus or Shopping Centres. We have met with the management of two major “Jewish destination” centres – Norwood Mall and Balfour Park, and have received their assurance that everything that can be done, will be done to minimise the negative effects of missionaries on their Jewish clientele.

Darryl and Darren have both appeared on ChaiFM and Darren was interviewed on Radio 702.

On Shavuot this year, Darryl spoke to his Shul’s congregation (Sydenham). The address formed part of a panel discussion on Christianity. The talk was exceptionally well received and Darryl spent a considerable amount of time afterwards fielding questions and addressing concerns privately with various individuals. While a certain missionary, well known in counter missionary circles also attended the talk, his presence did not disrupt the talk and Darryl was able to reduce any impact his presence may have had by talking to him privately afterwards. Darryl has attempted to maintain some form of contact with him as he attended the event with a Jewish friend whom Darryl is hoping to create a meaningful dialogue and provide a more stable Jewish influence.

Darryl is deputy headmaster of King David Linksfield Primary School and has often addressed topics related to Jews for Judaism, missionising and Christianity with the students. Darryl will also be talking to the Grade 11’s of King David at their annual encounter later on this month, as is done every year.

Darryl and Darren are members of “Counter Missionary Unite”, a loose affiliation of select international counter missionary professionals. As such, they are able to, and often do, tap into this resource which provides expert guidelines and assistance when necessary.

In conclusion, Darryl would like to take this opportunity to thank the UOS and specifically Darren Sevitz for his advice, assistance and support. Both Darryl and Darren will continue to make Jews for Judaism's presence felt in the community as it is evident that there is a definite need to combat the on-going activity of missionaries targeting Jewish communities and individuals.

With best wishes for a successful conference and a safe year ahead.

Regards,

Darryl Frankel
DIRECTOR: Jews for Judaism South Africa