By Dr. Zev Ballen
Rabbi Doctor Abraham Twerski, M.D., is known for his pioneering work with alcohol and drug addiction. Once there was Catholic priest who came to Rabbi Twerski to treat his alcoholism. The priest gave Rabbi Twersky an example of why so many of his fellow clergyman are struggling with alcohol addiction. He said that when the Christian person comes for confession he drinks a cup of wine. Then, after the confession, he leaves the remaining bottle of wine with the priest.
Rabbi Twerski told the priest that Rabbi Moshe Feinstein ruled that they could use grape juice instead of wine. The priest liked the idea but said he would need to check it out with the Bishop.The Bishop then asked the Cardinal until eventually the question came before the Vatican.
Sure enough the Vatican decided to follow the psak halacha (the legal ruling) of Rabbi Moshe Feinstein.
All people have sparks of Hashem's Holiness in them. Rav Berland said recently, it is our mission to awaken and ignite those sparks of Holiness wherever it's possible to do so. This, says Rav Berland, is the correct way of bringing the Messiah and world peace.
In this case, we see clearly how well the Torah can work for everybody.
Wishing You Blessings Always,
Dr. Zev Ballen
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