Letter from Isaac Leeser to Zalma Rehine;December 24, 1837 Isaac Leeser writes to his uncle, Zalma Rehine, about a conflict with his congregation. He was elected for three years at a salary of eight hundred dollars, but refused to sign a bond for three years. He discusses his disagreement with the congregation regarding the salary and bond, and seeks his uncle's advice on whether to sign the bond or leave the position. He mentions his progress on the Prayer Book and his health. The letter also contains details about his age and feelings about the congregation.
Letter from Isaac Mayer Wise to Isaac Leeser;August 19, 1850 A letter from Isaac Mayer Wise to Isaac Leeser, written in Albany, NY on August 19, 1850. The letter discusses the internal conflicts within a Jewish congregation, focusing on the actions of a Parnass (president) named Spanier. Wise details Spanier's alleged manipulative tactics, including financial maneuvering, suppressing dissenting voices, and accusations against Dr. Wise. The letter highlights the divisions within the congregation, characterized as a clash between those who support order and those who sow discord. Wise describes Spanier's actions as Jesuitical and accuses him of working against the interests of Dr. Wise and the congregation's stability. The letter also mentions a disagreement regarding the Sabbath observance and the congregation's financial situation.