Beliefs & Practices

What is Reform Judaism?

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.

History of Reform Judaism Why is Advocacy Central to Reform Judaism? Reform Organizations

Racial Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion

Why Pronouns Are so Important - And Why Using The Right Ones is so Jewish

Referring to individuals using their correct pronouns conveys respect and validation to everyone in our communities – part of the Jewish imperative to treat others’ the way we wish to be treated.

What Does the Torah Say about People with Disabilities?

In Leviticus, chapter 19, verses 14, we are taught, “You shall not insult the deaf, or place a stumbling block before the blind.”

Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity: What are They and Why Do They Matter to Us?

Judaism and social justice are inseparable. The pursuit of justice is not an elective we can shrug off as optional; the Torah literally tells us, “Justice, justice, you shall pursue” (Deut. 16:20).

Prayers and Blessings

Prayer Amid Pandemic: Words of Comfort for the COVID-19 Crisis

As many of us turn to prayer in this time of crisis, here is a list of some designed specifically for use during this time.

More Prayers & Blessings

Social Justice and Reform Judaism

Jewish Views on Civil Rights

American Reform Jews have historically supported a variety of civil rights issues, including equality for the LGBT community, hate crimes legislation, the death penalty, criminal justice reforms, disability rights, and legislative protections from religious discrimination in the workplace.

Jewish Views on Economic Justice

The Torah does not just command us to give to the poor but to advocate on their behalf. We are told in Proverbs 31:9 to “speak up, judge righteously, champion the poor and the needy.”

Jewish Views on Women's Rights & Reproductive Choice

Although an unborn fetus is precious and to be protected, Reform Judaism views the life and well-being of the birth parent as paramount, placing a higher value on existing life than on potential life.

Jewish Views on the Environment

Jewish tradition teaches us to care for our planet in order to preserve that which God has created.

Israel & Reform Judaism

Are there Reform Jews in Israel? Yes!

Though its early classical period was in 19th century Germany and Central Europe, Reform Judaism has undergone its greatest period of growth and development in the United States. Today Reform Judaism numbers some two million adherents in nearly 40 countries throughout the world. During the past 100 years, the Reform Jewish Movement has made a dramatic ideological and physical return to Israel.

More About Israel & Reform Judaism

Lifecycle RItuals

A baby about to have a Jewish baby naming

What to Expect at a Baby Naming

Jewish babies are given Hebrew names shortly after they are born. Usually, a brief ceremony is performed, which often includes family members of the new baby.

an image of two people of the same sex, one wearing a dress and one wearing a suit, under the chuppah getting married

Planning Your Jewish (or Jew-ish) Wedding

Selecting a date and venue, choosing your officiant, and what to expect during pre-marital meetings with your officiant.

History of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah

Bar mitzvah and bat mitzvah are the titles given to all Jews who reach the age of 13, regardless of whether or not they have studied to commemorate the occasion with a ritual, ceremony, or celebration.

Preparing for a Jewish Funeral: A Guide

The death of a loved one is often a painful and confusing time. This guide will assist you in planning the funeral and offer helpful information on the centuries-old Jewish burial practices.

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Find a Congregation Near You

Find connection, community, learning, and spirituality at a welcoming Reform congregation near you.

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Congregation Beth Am photo at Pride March

Spirituality

Transformation through Yoga

How do we listen to our bodies and spirits? For me, one path is yoga, a practice that strives to connect us with ourselves.

What's New

Yallah! Israel

Why This Summer is Different

June 26, 2024

For as long as I can remember, I've been in love with Israel. I've been fascinated by that small country with such rich meaning and history.

Lifecycle Rituals

Photo of two wedding rings sitting on top of a Ketubah

Making a Jewish Ritual for my Divorce

June 18, 2024

In the weeks leading up to my civil divorce, I delved into Jewish tradition to see how I could mark it Jewishly. I'd been married under a chuppah with the exquisite blessings of our tradition; simply marking my divorce in the Cook County courthouse was not going to suffice.

Talk for a Change

an image of three woman standing and holding an Israeli flag in front of them

Empowering Camp Staff and Counselors to Address Difficult Questions about Israel and Beyond

June 6, 2024

As we gear up for another unforgettable summer at URJ Camps - and with some camps already in full swing - we are reminded that today, more than ever, providing safe, nurturing spaces for our campers, counselors, and staff is of utmost importance.