In addition to his scholarship and dedication to his congregation,
Rabbi Sheir had founded a human rights organization, International
Conscience, to help those around the world being persecuted
for their religious beliefs. He was thus particularly
knowledgeable about global political issues. After Chicago,
their friendship continued, and deepened, and Rabbi Sheir
gradually became an important spiritual advisor to Bauer,
as well as her long-time friend.
“Good morning, Madame Secretary. How was the trip?”
Rabbi Sheir asked, jumping to his feet as she walked
into her reception area where he was waiting..
“Fascinating as usual. Please. Let’s talk,”
Bauer said as they shook hands warmly and walked into
her spacious office. “Please, sit down.” She
pointed to the blue leather sofa in the middle of the
room.
“Madame,” Rabbi Sheir said with a smile,
as he gestured for her to sit first.
“Due to the terrorists attacks, I didn’t
get to stop in Israel this time,” she said. “I
did want to talk to Prime Minister Shamron, and get
his views on several things. But, it didn’t happen.
Now Mark, first tell me, how are you? How is your congregation
at Temple Beth-El? And International Conscience?”
“They are living and loving and ailing and dying,
just like all people,” he said. “It’s
a wonderful community. And growing more vibrant. They
take care of me as much as I look after them. As for
the human rights work, there is progress. I recently
returned from China, as part of a Catholic, Protestant
and Jewish delegation investigating reports of persecution
and torture of believers.”
“Before that, we were in Europe to release a joint
report about a recent study, that half of Europeans
surveyed believe Jews are not loyal to their country
and more than one third believe they have too much power
in business and finance. Sad to say, millions of Europeans
still hold historical prejudices about Jews.”
“I admire your strength, Mark,” the secretary
of state replied. “We do have to keep working for
a better future… because to do nothing in the face
of ignorance…”
“But back to your trip, Rebecca,” he interrupted.
“Perhaps it is just as well you didn’t go
to Israel. These times are full of tension. The rhetoric
is bellicose; it is not a time for productive discussions
of reconciliation.”
“Anything in particular I should know about?”
Bauer asked, knowing that Rabbi Sheir was in close touch
with many facets of the Jewish community.
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