The three amigos

Reverend William Lawson, Archbishop Joseph Fiorenza and Rabbi Sam Karff were the original Three Amigos. With the loss of Rabbi Karff, Rabbi David Lyon joins as the fourth Amigo. (Photo: Stephanie Maierson Photography) 

The loss of Rabbi Sam Karff not only leaves a void at Congregation Beth Israel, where he was senior rabbi for 24 years and rabbi emeritus since 1999, but also in an interfaith trio that set an example for promoting respect and dignity throughout Houston. The Three Amigos is what religious leaders the Rev. William Lawson, Archbishop Joseph Fiorenza and Rabbi Karff (pictured, from left) called themselves. They banded together more than 50 years ago to fight for civil rights for people of all races and faiths. Recently, a new Amigo was named by the Rev. Lawson and Archbishop Fiorenza. Rabbi David Lyon, the senior rabbi at Congregation Beth Israel who was mentored by Rabbi Karff, was already a partner in ADL’s Coalition for Mutual Respect. Rev. Lawson and Archbishop Fiorenza needed a third partner to continue their work in Houston, and Rabbi Lyon was the obvious choice. They look forward to honoring Rabbi Karff’s legacy and continuing their work. Find more details at “Finding a Fourth for the Three Amigos” by Andria Frankfort. 

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