Interview with Rabbi White
Former Senior Dan Sirkin sat down to interview
Rabbi Harold White - Jewish Chaplain, Georgetown legend, and all around mensch.
DS: When did you come to Georgetown and why did a Catholic University want a Rabbi on Staff?
RHW: I came to Georgetown in 1968. At the time the Jewish student population here was slightly over 1 percent, and I was the first Rabbi to be appointed to a full time position at a Catholic University.
Jewish studies and the Jewish Student Association already existed when I began at Georgetown. I was not hired so much to attract or teach Jewish students, but rather to confirm and elaborate on the reality that Jesus was a Jew to Christian students. I could provide an authentic Jewish perspective and experience that other professors could not.
DS: Have you ever felt out of place working at a Catholic University?
RHW: Never. Not at all. I have a very close connection with the Jesuit community, and teaching in the theology department I have taught many Christian students, and have made close connections with many. I always feel that I have a strong relationship with the African American and Muslim communities at Georgetown.
DS: Georgetown has a long history of interfaith dialogue and understanding, how have you and the Jewish community played a role in that?
RHW: I've played a key role in interfaith dialogue being the creator of hallelujah Shabbat, the interfaith seder, and other such events at Georgetown. Additionally, teaching in the theology department most of my students are not Jewish, and so they are able to experience a new tradition.
DS: You have worked at Georgetown for 37 years, is there any story or experience that stands out in your mind during that tenure?
RHW: A number of years ago a student from Brooklyn and her parents came to Georgetown, and were shocked to find out that it was a Catholic University. The parents found me, and I helped them to relax and realize how wonderful a community Georgetown is. As we were talking the mother noticed a statue I have in my office of St. Francis of Assisi on a horse with a duck and a pig beneath him. She complemented me on the beautiful statue of what she thought was Jeremiah the prophet, but asked why there was a pig on the statue. After I explained to her that it actually St. Francis, she replied, "Rabbi, I think you have been at Georgetown too long!" as if I were slowly becoming Catholic.
Well, that student did come to Georgetown, and she ended up becoming a Rabbi. Georgetown and its strong spiritual community had a large part to do with that.
DS: How do you feel about Jewish life at Georgetown currently, and what do you expect for the future?
RHW: I think Jewish life at Georgetown is quite strong now. Over my time I have been privileged to see the growth of the Jewish community from 1 percent to at least 12 percent, and seen the course offerings rise from 1 course to 6 different courses in Jewish theology. In addition, three levels of Hebrew are now offered, classes on Israeli Culture, and a certificate in Judaic Studies is now offered in the SFS.
Even so, I think Jewish life will continue to be stronger in the future. These new programs and the Center for Jewish Civilization will attract more Jewish students. I also hope that in the future we will be able to serve the need of our more orthodox students by providing a kosher kitchen and other facilities.
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