n The Daily Free Press article (“Boston among nation’s most Jewish cities,” Dec. 4, p. 3) about Boston’s ascension into the 10 most populous Jewish cities was supposed to be an uplifting piece. After all, any American city that is welcoming and accommodating to the Jewish community is a wonderful place to me.

I was extremely disturbed, however, by the rude and insensitive remarks made by Hillel’s Executive Director, Rabbi Joseph Polak.

In the article, he proclaims, “Unless you are prepared to tell your kid that you can’t drive a car on [the Sabbath] as the Torah says, it doesn’t mean a whole lot.”

First of all, and most importantly, how dare anyone assume the right to become God’s policeman and criticize others for their levels of observance.

The Rabbi of the Jewish community on campus, especially, should be cognizant of all people and should openly accommodate all religious practices.

With continued judgmental and ignorant comments made by prominent Jewish leaders, there is no doubt that, as Rabbi Polak stated, “You’re not going to get a second generation of committed Jews.”

I am the son of two rabbis, a product of four years of Jewish youth group, eight years of Jewish camping and 12 years of Jewish day school.

I drive on the Sabbath just as I use my cell phone and eat at non-kosher restaurants.

But I dare anyone to question my integrity and determination to live a Jewish life and, with God’s blessing, raise strong Jewish children.

As student co-president of Hillel, I apologize for our Rabbi’s disheartening comments that will have offended and alienated a number of liberal Jews, including myself.

I strongly urge you to join me at Shabbat services this Friday evening at 5:30 pm. I will be leading a musical, engaging and spiritually fulfilling liberal service — that is as holy as anyone else’s — for everyone to enjoy.

Jonah P. Kaplan

COM ’08

Student President, BU Hillel