Statement on the Allegations of Anti-Semitism Charges Against Walter Veith in Germany November 2012

12.12.03 - SPECIAL REPORT: Statement on the Allegations of Anti-Semitism Charges Against Walter Veith in Germany November 2012

The following is a full report of the situation surrounding charges against Walter Veith as of December 2, 2012

On October 20, 2012, Walter Veith preached the lecture “King of the North (Part 2)” from the new series Repairing the Breach in German [German title Sturm aus dem Norden] in Marienberg SDA Church in Nurnberg, Germany, to an audience of approximately 350 people. The lecture was also live-streamed to approximately 1500 people.  Almost immediately after the presentation, Walter Veith received violent opposition by way of an article by EANN  about his claims of Freemason/Jesuit involvement in the creation of the State in Israel after WWII and the way he expressed himself in regards to the Jews during Hitler’s regime. Although EANN is run by a few Adventist individuals, it is not an official institution of the SDA church in Germany but a privately funded online news magazine that designates itself as an “Independent Journal for Religion, Church and Society”. Three points specifically were brought up as points of contention:

• The usage of the words  “little yellow cloth” [German “gelbes Tüchlein”] in reference to the markings the Jewish people had to wear during the post Napoleonic era and during Hitler’s regime.  
• The usage of the word “herded” when referring to the situation of the Jews after the end of the war as a result of Hitler’s persecution and their transference to the newly formed State of Israel, as well as the lack of compassion on the part of many countries, including Canada, the UK, and others who refused entrance to Jews that had escaped the Nazi totalitarian regime.
• The use of quotes from the book Facts are Facts by the Jewish author Benjamin Freedman, as evidence that most Jews aren’t really of Jewish descent, because Freedman is considered an anti-Semitic.

The writer of the EANN article felt these comments were derogatory towards the Jews and as a result raised severe opposition towards Walter Veith, accusing him of anti-Semitism and a “relativization of the holocaust” because Walter connected it to secret plans to create a modern Jewish State in Palestine.

When the SDA leadership of the two German unions was confronted with these allegations, including a personal letter of the EANN author to the two union presidents, it attempted to make contact with Veith without success. Since they felt that the situation was potentially explosive in nature the German Union (including the SDA administrators of Austria and Switzerland) decided to take  immediate action by publishing a statement which condemned in very strong terms Veith’s usage of “herding” and “little yellow cloth”, his manner of dealing with other religions as well as his supposed “conspiracy theories” about the involvement of secret societies in history and in general. They requested that local churches not provide a platform for “events like this”. The statement was to be circulated via email to all pastors and elders, via Adventist press agencies, and printed in the monthly church organ “Adventisten Heute”. Furthermore, the document was styled as a reiteration of an official 2005 statement of the German speaking SDA church where it confessed its shortcomings during the time of the Nazi regime thus lending momentous significance to the statement against Walter Veith.

As soon as Walter returned to South Africa, he wrote the following letter to the German brethren explaining that he did not mean anything derogatory in his remarks, and that the expression “little yellow cloth” was due to German being his second language. The letter follows:

To whom it may concern
Dear Brethren in Germany

I wish to briefly respond to the allegations of anti Semitism during my recent visit to Germany.

Let me assure you brethren that I am not by any stretch of the imagination an Anti Semite.
Indeed, any form of racism is abhorrent to me and having grown up in South Africa I have firsthand experience regarding this issue and have been an ardent campaigner against racist injustice all my life. Also, as South African, I was probably not attuned to the hypersensitivity of the current German nation regarding the injustices perpetrated on the Jews by the Nazi regime and my comments have thus been misinterpreted. As you well know, German is not my first language and I believe that some of the supposed statements regarding belittling remarks such as “gelbesTuechlein” stem from my linguistic inadequacy in this department and certainly not from malicious intent as some hope to surmise. Moreover, the treatment the Jews received in Germany and for that matter from many other nations as well can only be described as diabolical and there was certainly historic ‘herding’ involved to the shame of all who practiced it. Moreover, ‘herding’ is the modus operandi of Christ’s adversary, who is herding the whole world into a collective mindset which will result in the final persecution of God’s antitypical Israel.

This is not a conspiracy theory but a prophetic reality and the Spirit of Prophecy warns that if we associate with those who war against Christ we will soon come to see matters in the same light as they and lose our discernment. I plead with you dear brethren to note the serious times we are living in and heed the warnings that God has so graciously given us through the Spirit of Prophecy.

The purpose of the lecture was to show that literal Israel (both physically and theologically) can in no way represent the ‘Spiritual Israel’ of the Bible and that any theological gymnastics to the contrary cannot negate this fact. Indeed this is the Advent position and stands contrary to most modern theological views held by other evangelicals. My purpose was not to attack the Jews but to defend the Advent position. Of necessity the Advent position will create controversy as it stands in juxtaposition to all other views. It is my sincere wish that that all people, including the Jews, will accept the Advent position which glorifies Christ and firmly establishes Him as Saviour and Ruler of the ‘Israel of God’.

Since it is obvious that some misconstrued my comments as derogatory to the Jews I again wish to reiterate that that was not my intent and I sincerely apologize if it came across that way.

Hopefully this matter can now be laid to rest.

Your brother in Christ
Walter Veith

Veith’s letter was sent to the German Unions, Conferences, and Inter-European Division (EUD) along with the following cover letter written by Amazing Discoveries Germany that contained a significant statement of Arno Hamburger, member of the Nuremberg City Council and first Chairman of the Jewish Religious Community (IKG). In order to put the allegations to rest, AD Germany had taken the DVD in question to him asking for a personal evaluation concerning the charge of anti-Semitism. Here is AD Germany’s cover letter with Hamburger’s comment included:

Nov 16, 2012
[Translated into English from German original]
Dear Günther, Brothers in the Union, Conferences and EUD,

As you all know already,  a “storm” has been unleashed as a result of the biased article by the private news agency EANN. While the negative attitude of EANN towards conservative preachers such as Walter Veith is certainly not news to the SDA leadership, it took us quite by surprise to read with what hasty vehemence the SDA leadership has publicly fallen into line with the allegations, and thereby sided with the accusers without preserving due objectivity.

It is much to our regret that the leadership has not waited for a statement from Walter Veith, but instead “informed” all of the churches [in Germany] immediately.  Of course, we understand that if there was an actual case of anti-Semitism then it is important to react quickly.  If certain expressions of an Adventist speaker revealed an anti-Semitic attitude and  therefore might seriously damage the Church’s reputation, then it would be reasonable and imperative to take action. But these circumstances were definitely not applicable in the case under consideration.

There should be no question with any of us that Walter Veith is no anti-Semite, and a description of the Jewish badge as a "little yellow cloth" [German “gelbes Tüchlein”] is no deliberate trivialization and not to be judged  as anti-Semitic, especially when his mother tongue is not German.

We have taken the trouble to share the DVD with famous and politically influential Jewish citizens to objectively find out whether it can actually be perceived as anti-Semitic. Despite the fact that Jews do not agree with our Christian ideas, Arno Hamburger (Nuremberg City Council and the first Chairman of the Jewish Community “IKG” and multiple winner of the German Order of Merit) commented on November 15, 2012: "I cannot see any anti-Semitism. I would like to talk with this man."

We ask that you please forward the attached counter-statements to all churches, so that they have a fair opportunity to make their own judgment. In addition, Amazing Discoveries [Germany]  will place the entire lecture on our homepage (www.amazing-discoveries.org) (password protected) with password available upon request.

Despite our disappointment, we would like to assure you that we seek and desire brotherly unity. In these difficult times, we wish you wisdom from above and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Eckental, the Nov 16, 2012
Stan Sedlbauer  [President]
Amazing Discoveries Germany

The German brethren formally accepted Veith’s apology but were not impressed by Hamburger’s assessment and did in no way retract or even moderate the expressed accusations.

On November 26, 2012, a police officer contacted the pastor of the Nuremberg-Marienberg church who referred him to Stan Sedlbauer, president of AD Germany, who was then informed by the officer that an inquiry had been lodged at the public prosecutor’s office in Nuremberg to investigate whether Walter Veith in the said presentation had commited sedition [German “Volksverhetzung”] which in Germany includes the belittlement of Nazi crimes and the holocaust. These are serious charges that can be punished with up to five years of prison under German jurisdiction. Stan was interviewed as a witness and also provided copies of the DVD, Walter’s statement to the SDA administration, and the response of the Jew Arno Hamburger to the police for further investigation.  The inquiry was not made by government authorities or the Jewish community but by “a press organ” as the police officer said. EANN has declined responsibility for this process. However, if this case does come to court, the true identity of the accuser will be revealed.

After learning of the ongoing investigation, Walter wrote the following email to the Transvaal Conference explaining the situation to his superiors. It is this email that has gone viral on Facebook. Here it is in its entirety. Included was the above letter from Walter to the German brethren.

Message from Pastor Veith – From: DC Spencer
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2012 16:03:48 +0200
Subject: Feedback after SMS re Walter Veith
Walter Veith wrote (28 Nov, 2012)
Concerning legal proceedings against myself in Germany:

A case of sedition (incitement against the government) has been lodged against me for apparent anti Semitic statements in my lecture on Daniel 11 (see my response below). It is probable that the people who lodged the complaint are the group from EANN (the German equivalent of SPECTRUM MAGAZINE) because they propagated such action immediately after the lecture. “Spectrum” is our liberal magazine whose first editor claimed that the visions that Ellen White received were as a result of epileptic attacks so the rest of their theology can be deduced from sentiments such as these.

There is no court case as yet, only the charge has been lodged. The police have made their enquiries, and it is up to the government now to decide whether they have a case and this will take until January — then we will know. Ellen White predicted that such things would happen so I am of good spirits because it proves the Spirit of Prophecy right. I have accepted that the matter is now in the hands of the Government and trust that God is in control. Below a few ‘epileptic attacks’ to give us hope and courage.

It is Satan's plan to weaken the faith of God's people in the Testimonies. Next follows skepticism in regard to the vital points of our faith, the pillars of our position, then doubt as to the Holy Scriptures, and then the downward march to perdition. When the Testimonies, which were once believed, are doubted and given up, Satan knows the deceived ones will not stop at this; and he redoubles his efforts till he launches them into open rebellion, which becomes incurable and ends in destruction.--4T 211.  {LDE 178.2}

Men professing to be representatives of Christ will take a course similar to that taken by priests and rulers in their treatment of Paul. All who would fearlessly serve God according to the dictates of their own conscience, will need moral courage, firmness, and a knowledge of God and his word, to stand in that evil day. Persecution will again be kindled against those who are true to God; their motives will be impugned, their best efforts misinterpreted, their names cast out as evil. Then will it come to pass, as foretold by Christ, that whoever shall seek to destroy the faithful, will think that he is doing God service. Then Satan will work with all his fascinating power, to influence the heart and becloud the understanding, to make evil appear good, and good evil. Then it is that he is through his agents to "show great signs and wonders, insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect."  {LP 251.1}

“Satan will excite indignation against the humble minority who conscientiously refuse to accept popular customs and traditions. Men of position and reputation will join with the lawless and the vile to take counsel against the people of God. Wealth, genius, education, will combine to cover them with contempt. Persecuting rulers, ministers, and church members will conspire against them. With voice and pen, by boasts, threats, and ridicule, they will seek to overthrow their faith. By false representations and angry appeals they will stir up the passions of the people. Not having a ‘Thus saith the Scriptures’ to bring against the advocates of the Bible Sabbath, they will resort to oppressive enactments to supply the lack. To secure popularity and patronage, legislators will yield to the demand for a Sunday law.”—5 Testimonies, 450:2-451

Kings, governors, and great men will hear of you through the reports of those who are at enmity with you, and your faith and character will be misrepresented before them. But those who are falsely accused will have an opportunity to appear in the presence of their accusers to answer for themselves. They will have the privilege of bringing the light before those who are called the great men of the earth, and if you have studied the Bible, if you are ready to give an answer to every man that asketh you of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear, your enemies will not be able to gainsay your wisdom.  {Mar 253.2}

When the religion of Christ is most held in contempt, when His law is most despised, then should our zeal be the warmest and our courage and firmness the most unflinching. To stand in defense of truth and righteousness when the majority forsake us, to fight the battles of the Lord when champions are few--this will be our test. At this time we must gather warmth from the coldness of others, courage from their cowardice, and loyalty from their treason.--5T 136 (1882).  {LDE 180.4}

Amazing Discoveries waited until now to release this information in order to obtain full details and to give an opportunity for the German leadership to retract and rethink their false accusations and resolve this issue in a Christian manner. Unfortunately, this has not taken place as of this date. We are saddened that this has come out on the public domain.

On November 30, 2012, Walter Veith received the following letter from Bruno Vertallier, President of the Inter-European Division.

General Conference
Inter-European Division
Schosshaldenstrasse 17
3006 Bem. Switzerland
Tel. +41-31 35915 15
Fax +41-31 359 15 66
E-mail info@euroafrica org

November 30, 2012

Dear Brother Veith,
The Inter-European Division's Administrative Committee was profoundly disturbed by the contents of your presentation at the Seventh-day Adventist Church of Nurnberg-Marienberg in Germany, on October 20, 2012. The committee does not take lightly what you said for it is absolutely inappropriate to speak words like "yellow piece of clothing" and others in connection with the Jewish past. This is not the way we should speak about the Jews in the Seventh-day Adventist church. These comments have hurt people. I have personally tried on a few occasions to contact you by phone and e-mail to discuss this matter with you. However, I did not get a response from you. The committee acknowledges your apology concerning some of the expressions you used in association with the Jewish people. Understanding that, this is of the highest importance the committee asks you that you meet with the Inter-European Division's officers during your next trip to our territories, so that we get some clarification on this issue and also about your theories regarding Freemasons and Jesuits amongst other topics.

Thank you for your attention in this matter.

Bruno Vertallier
President of the Inter-European Division
CC :German speaking fields and Ted Wilson, GC President

Based on this letter from Bruno Vertallier, it is obvious that the issue is not really just a “little yellow cloth”, but rather the long-standing opposition to Walter Veith’s exposure of freemasonry and Jesuits. After several discussions with the German administration regarding these topics, Walter Veith’s last challenge to them still remains unanswered on these issues.  If the German administration is unwilling to hear the SOP quotes on secret societies as already shared with them by Walter Veith, it is our opinion that further discussion with them on this issue would be futile.

We are still hopeful that by God’s grace the repercussions will not damage the reputation of our beloved Church, and that this situation will still be resolved to bring about peace and unity.

We ask you to pray for wisdom for our leaders that they will deal justly with this situation. Please also pray for Walter to continue to stand courageously for the truth, and for AD Germany as they experience continuing opposition.

Stay tuned for further developments.  Amazing Discoveries will issue further updates on our website as this story develops.

To view the presentation in question, click here:  “King of the North” part 2 on youtube

The full series of Repairing the Breach will be released in North America shortly on ADTV with DVDs also available. Contact the office for further information.

May the Lord preside over this matter,
Amazing Discoveries

Source.