Christian-Jewish Relations: Le Chambon-sur-Lignon and The Vatican Commission

Series consists of records pertaining to Prof. Marrus’s research and investigation into matters relating to Christian-Jewish relations during the Holocaust. In particular, the files relate to two groups: Le Chambon and the Vatican Commission.Series includes files relating to Prof. Marrus’s service on the Board of Directors of the Friends of Le Chambon (later named the Chambon Foundation). The organization, founded in 1982, is dedicated to telling the story of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon, a mountain village in France, where 5000 Christians sheltered 5000 Jews during the Holocaust. The foundation was founded by filmmaker Pierre Sauvage, who made the documentary Weapons of the Spirit. In 2004, then French President Chirac visited the site, which brought it increased attention. Records relating to Le Chambon include correspondence, newsletters, news clippings, and other records in both French and English.Series also contains files relating to Prof. Marrus’s membership on the Vatican International Catholic Jewish Historical Commission, which was tasked with examining the role of the Vatican during the Holocaust. The group was formed in 1999, issued a report in 2000, and disbanded in 2001 after failing to gain access to records in the Vatican archives. Records relating to the Vatican Commission include significant correspondence, reports, clippings and taped interviews with Father Peter Gumpel, a Jesuit priest whose family had to escape Germany due to their views against the National Socialists. Then, during the WWII, Gumpel helped Jews to escape in the Netherlands.