What is Reform Judaism's position on cremation?
It is considered a mitzvah to bury the dead with all proper respect.
On Shabbat, why is the challah covered with a decorative cloth?
There are two popular explanations for this custom.
Why is the Sabbath considered a day of rest?
The requirement that we rest on Shabbat is explained by the Torah according to two broad themes.
What is Reform Judaism's position on allowing terminally ill people who are mentally competent to request medication from doctors to allow them to end their own lives?
Jewish tradition holds that since life is a gift from God, it is to be cherished until its last moments.
Why do Jews put small stones on tombstones when visiting the cemetery?
The earliest graves may have been covered by a mound of stones.
How do I bring Jewish values into a secular holiday like Halloween?
Just because Halloween is non-religious does not mean that we should check our Jewishness at the door. Rather, we have the opportunity to bring Jewish values to heart for that festival evening.
Does listening to a podcast count as study? Is it OK to say the blessing if I’m listening to commentary without reading or hearing the Torah portion?
Listening to the podcast definitely counts as Torah study. It’s an opportunity to learn a bit of Torah and start to think about the weekly Torah while also incorporating some modern-day thinking into the traditional message.
What is the Reform position on clergy officiating at the wedding of a Jew to a person brought up in a different faith?
I’m Jewish and my partner is not. We’d like to have a Jewish wedding and plan to raise a Jewish family. Will a Reform rabbi or cantor officiate at our wedding?
Is it Jewishly permissible for us to bury our beloved pet with my late mother? The dog meant a lot to her.
There are Jewish practices that can support those who experience the loss of pet.
I'm preparing to make aliyah (move to Israel) and was surprised to read that I need to present a "Jewish certificate." I’ve been Jewish my entire life, but I’ve never heard of a certificate that proves it! How do I obtain that?
Your first step should be to approach the organization Nefesh B'Nefesh, which works with the Israeli government and The Jewish Agency for Israel to “remove or minimize the financial, professional, logistical and social obstacles of aliyah and the move to Israel.” They will walk you through the process.