Annie F. (Annie Fellows) Johnston
In League with Israel: A Tale of the Chattanooga Conference
"In League with Israel: A Tale of the Chattanooga Conference" by Annie Fellows Johnston is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around themes of Jewish identity, faith, and the complexities of relationships in a society influenced by differing religious beliefs. The main characters, including David, a young Jewish man, and Bethany, a grieving woman from a prominent family, navigate their lives amidst a backdrop of a conference that aims to bring together different faith communities, exploring how their paths intersect and diverge. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Rabbi Ezra and his protégé, David, as they engage in a meaningful conversation regarding family, cultural identity, and the potential dangers of influence from a Gentile society. David, who feels a strong sense of duty towards his younger sister Marta, faces a dilemma when she wishes to join friends in Chattanooga. This leads him to contemplate abandoning a planned trip to Hudson Bay. When David encounters the vibrant Epworth League conference in Chattanooga, he is exposed to a blend of cultures and beliefs, challenges to his Jewish identity, and his growing connection to the charismatic figures surrounding him, setting the stage for a larger exploration of faith and intercultural relationships throughout the novel.