Reform Judaism
Throughout history, Jews have remained firmly rooted in Jewish tradition, even as we learned much from our encounters with other cultures. Nevertheless, since its earliest days, Reform Judaism has asserted that a Judaism frozen in time is an heirloom, not a living fountain. The great contribution of Reform Judaism is that it has enabled the Jewish people to introduce innovation while preserving tradition, to embrace diversity while asserting commonality, to affirm beliefs without rejecting those who doubt and to bring faith to sacred texts without sacrificing critical scholarship.
Reform Judaism affirms the central tenets of Judaism - God, Torah and Israel - even as it acknowledges the diversity of Reform Jewish beliefs and practices. We believe that all human beings are created in the image of God, and that we are God's partners in improving the world. Tikkun olam — repairing the world — is a hallmark of Reform Judaism as we strive to bring peace, freedom and justice to all people.
Reform Jews accept the Torah as the foundation of Jewish life containing God's ongoing revelation to our people and the record of our people's ongoing relationship with God. We see the Torah as God inspired, a living document that enables us to confront the timeless and timely challenges of our everyday lives.
In addition to our belief that Judaism must change and adapt to the needs of the day to survive and our firm commitment to Tikkun Olam, the following principles distinguish Reform Jews from other streams of Judaism in North America.
Reform Jews are committed to the principle of inclusion, not exclusion. Since 1978 the Reform Movement has been reaching out to Jews-by-choice and interfaith families, encouraging them to embrace Judaism. Reform Jews consider children to be Jewish if they are the child of a Jewish father or mother, so long as the child is raised as a Jew.
Reform Jews are committed to the absolute equality of women in all areas of Jewish life. We were the first movement to ordain women rabbis, invest women cantors and elect women presidents of our synagogues.
Reform Jews are also committed to the full participation of gays and lesbians in synagogue life, as well as society at large.
Reform Judaism affirms the central tenets of Judaism - God, Torah and Israel - even as it acknowledges the diversity of Reform Jewish beliefs and practices. We believe that all human beings are created in the image of God, and that we are God's partners in improving the world. Tikkun olam — repairing the world — is a hallmark of Reform Judaism as we strive to bring peace, freedom and justice to all people.
Reform Jews accept the Torah as the foundation of Jewish life containing God's ongoing revelation to our people and the record of our people's ongoing relationship with God. We see the Torah as God inspired, a living document that enables us to confront the timeless and timely challenges of our everyday lives.
In addition to our belief that Judaism must change and adapt to the needs of the day to survive and our firm commitment to Tikkun Olam, the following principles distinguish Reform Jews from other streams of Judaism in North America.
Reform Jews are committed to the principle of inclusion, not exclusion. Since 1978 the Reform Movement has been reaching out to Jews-by-choice and interfaith families, encouraging them to embrace Judaism. Reform Jews consider children to be Jewish if they are the child of a Jewish father or mother, so long as the child is raised as a Jew.
Reform Jews are committed to the absolute equality of women in all areas of Jewish life. We were the first movement to ordain women rabbis, invest women cantors and elect women presidents of our synagogues.
Reform Jews are also committed to the full participation of gays and lesbians in synagogue life, as well as society at large.
Biennial Thoughts & Reflections
Inspiration, Education and Transformation: Remarks by Laurie Frolich
Communities of Practice and Audacious Hospitality: Remarks by Cantor Melanie Cooperman
Amazing Speakers and Dynamic Leadership: Remarks by Irene Metz
My 19th Biennial and the Most Well Organized: Remarks by Ron Cohen
Four Resolutions and Shabbat Torah Study: Remarks by Susan Rudolph
Communities of Practice and Audacious Hospitality: Remarks by Cantor Melanie Cooperman
Amazing Speakers and Dynamic Leadership: Remarks by Irene Metz
My 19th Biennial and the Most Well Organized: Remarks by Ron Cohen
Four Resolutions and Shabbat Torah Study: Remarks by Susan Rudolph
The World Union for Progressive Judaism
The World Union for Progressive Judaism is the international umbrella organization of the Reform, Liberal, Progressive and Reconstructionist movements, serving 1,200 congregations with 1.8 million members in more than 45 countries. Its mission is to strengthen Jewish life and values in Israel and Jewish communities throughout the world by supporting and advancing a Progressive approach to Jewish tradition.
Traveling overseas? Looking to experience Shabbat or holiday services with with other, like-minded Reform Jews? We'll connect you with congregations worldwide for home hospitality, prayer services and more - just waiting to welcome you!
What makes Reform and Progressive Judaism so special? The 1.8 million Jews who are affiliated with our inclusive and values-driven movement in over 50 countries around the world. As the global organization that represents and strengthens global Reform Jewry, the World Union is proud to help connect you with like-minded and welcoming Jews and their congregations as you travel the world for holidays, Shabbat or vacations.
Click HERE to Download for iOS (Apple)
Click HERE to Download for Android
Our Reform Congregation Finder puts global Reform Judaism at your fingertips.
* Enter your destination city to discover a range of geographically-located Reform, Progressive, Liberal and Reconstructive congregations and communities nearby.
* Send your inquiry to get information about services, join upcoming events, and be invited for home hospitality.
It's like visiting the family you never knew you had.
What makes Reform and Progressive Judaism so special? The 1.8 million Jews who are affiliated with our inclusive and values-driven movement in over 50 countries around the world. As the global organization that represents and strengthens global Reform Jewry, the World Union is proud to help connect you with like-minded and welcoming Jews and their congregations as you travel the world for holidays, Shabbat or vacations.
Click HERE to Download for iOS (Apple)
Click HERE to Download for Android
Our Reform Congregation Finder puts global Reform Judaism at your fingertips.
* Enter your destination city to discover a range of geographically-located Reform, Progressive, Liberal and Reconstructive congregations and communities nearby.
* Send your inquiry to get information about services, join upcoming events, and be invited for home hospitality.
It's like visiting the family you never knew you had.