Some 200 Jews were concealed by Assisi residents in monasteries, convents and homes during the Holocaust. Nuns and monks also helped forge identity papers and kept a kosher kitchen and a school for Jewish children.
Rita Semel, former executive director of the S.F.-based Jewish Community Relations Council who is also on the board of Catholic Charities, said the award marks just one occasion of an enduring good faith between the two communities.
“We have a long history of Catholic-Jewish cooperation here,” Semel said. The award is “a tribute to both communities that have as a mission making the world a better place.”
The funds raised by JCF aided dislocated families and helped rebuild crumbling homes and churches, according to Wayne Feinstein, JCF executive vice president.
“Jews in this community have a longstanding close relation with the Catholic community,” he said. “We didn’t do this seeking any recognition. But the award is a nice way of saying thank you. We are honored and grateful.”