Synagogues are a means, not an end in themselves. But thriving synagogues contribute to Judaism's goal: to create healthy individuals, thriving communities, flourishing Jewish life, interconnected human life and a sustainable planet.
Seth Rosen reflects on the successes of our 2018 convention and shares plans to build on it to strengthen our communities and movement.
Learn more about Reconstructionist Educators of North America, a vital resource for professional development, mentorship and connection for Jewish educators in Reconstructionist communities.
Through Evolve, we we provide deep, thoughtful, challenging materials to rabbis, professionals and educated laypeople, and provide forums for discussing and reflecting on these materials with respect.
Two months after the attack at Pittsburgh congregation Dor Hadash, we revisit the community.
The Joint Israel Commission gathered in person at the Reconstructing Judaism convention. Rabbi Maurice Harris reports on their activities and next steps.
Reconstructionist congregation Dor Hadash was one of the groups in the crosshairs of the horrific Pittsburgh shooting attack. We recount the unique qualities of this vibrant community, the trauma they've undergone, and the values they continue to uphold.
A selection of articles, essays and statements on the tragic events in Pittsburgh.
We deeply believe in holy conversation. It is essential and urgent. We know Reconstructionists are good at it. We want to maintain this strength and deepen it, and to model it for the wider community. We hope that you agree and will join us.
Two November events loom as I write this column: the mid-term elections on November 6, and the first Reconstructionist movement-wide convention in a decade, a week later. The first admittedly will have far more impact on the world than the latter, but they are linked in my mind for one important reason: movements matter.
Rabbi Sandy Eisenberg Sasso, RRC ’74, knows what it means to make history. Her newest children’s book, Regina Persisted: An Untold Story, reclaims a story lost to history. The book also provides adults and children a portrait of a strong woman driven by her love of Judaism.
Rabbi Deborah Waxman, president of Reconstructing Judaism, reports on her participation in the national leadership mission to the San Diego-Tijuana border organized by HIAS and the Anti-Defamation League.
The musical services at Congregation Bet Haverim are a phenomenon. This November, a contingent of more than 30 members of Bet Haverim’s chorus and band will be featured at the Reconstructing Judaism 2018 Convention in Philadelphia.
As we continue to develop new ways to build community across time and distance, we must also continue to find ways to “be there” for one another.
Board president Seth Rosen reflects on the power of being together in the same place.
The RRA recently became a partner of the Poor People’s Campaign (PPC). In the last two weeks the PPC has coordinated rallies and acts of civil disobedience in over 30 state capitals, including the participation of over 15 RRA members.
Belonging connects us to something larger than our own individual experience. I belong to the Jewish people because claiming this connection enters me into a millennia-old conversation and joins me into community both vertical—all those who came before me and all those who follow—and horizontal—the Jews of today, in all our diversity.
With a welcoming ethos and a drive to break down barriers, Reconstructionist congregations and havurot have been part of a revolution that’s taken place in the public awareness of the importance of disability inclusion and related services.
The Aviv Revolving Loan Fund is one way that Reconstructing Judaism is marshaling its resources to strengthen affiliated communities and foster innovation.
When we began our Israel journey together in Tel Aviv on March 7th, we were 25 people representing 11 Reconstructionist communities who travelled there on the promise to go places and meet people that even veteran Israel travelers hadn’t visited or met. And on that promise, the Reconstructing Judaism Israel Mission Trip delivered.
Why belong to the Jewish people? Why belong to a synagogue? Why belong to the Reconstructionist movement? These are some of the most important questions that I am asked and that I, along with all of us at Reconstructing Judaism, strive to answer powerfully and convincingly.
Though we count time Jewishly, by any consideration the secular year 2018 is an exciting year for the Reconstructionist movement.
The story of Temple Emmanuel's ongoing exploration of Reconstructionist liturgy, and the rich conversations the process has opened up.
Serving Jewish prisoners in state prison, rabbinic students find new perspectives on freedom and responsibility.
Reconstructing Judaism welcomes Temple Emek Shalom in Ashland, Oregon.
What does it mean to build the Jewish communities in which we live? Seth Rosen reflects on the opportunity and obligation posed by this charge.
Eighty-six Jewish activists, including six Reconstructionist rabbis, were arrested in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 17 in a bold act of civil disobedience in solidarity with more than 800,000 Dreamers.
Reflections on the state of Reconstructionist Judaism as 2018 begins.
Rabbi Howard Cohen, who serves both as a rabbi and a volunteer firefighter, describes how his overlapping spheres provide richness and balance.
Reflections on the recent Jewish Social Justice roundtable meeting on racial justice and equity.
Board chair Seth Rosen lays out his plans for the development of the Reconstructionist movement.
At Camp Havaya Arts, opening this summer in Redlands, California, campers will be nurtured as they explore for themselves what it means to live a Jewish life through the prism of the arts.
How do startup leaders break through the barrage of urgent tasks to reflect and plan? We speak with Avi Deutsch, co-founder and CEO of LAVAN, to learn his secrets.
In a new documentary, "The Chosen People? A Film about Jewish Identity," filmmaker Josh Gippin explores the concept of "chosenness" as it has evolved from biblical to contemporary times. The film prominently features Reconstructionist Judaism and its rejection of the idea of Jews as God's chosen people— but also includes perspectives that embrace it.
Reconstructing Judaism, along with six Reconstructionist congregations, is partnering with the Harold Grinspoon Foundation in a pilot project to enhance the teaching of values in religious schools.
Several years ago, the Abigail Pogrebin immersed herself in the Jewish calendar, minor and major holidays alike. Her book, “My Jewish Year: 18 Holidays, One Wondering Jew,” chronicles the result. Read an interview with Pogrebin and find out how to join her learning network and "find sparkle in the Jewish calendar."
Jennifer Janes may live in the same city she had as a teen, but she’s traveled a long road to find her spiritual home in Reconstructionist Judaism and Congregation Beth Am in San Antonio, Texas.
Paul Piwnicki, a Polish-born, German-raised scientist and Jew-by-choice, credits Reconstructionist thought with helping him develop a personal theology and practice. Piwnicki’s story highlights the influence of Reconstructionist ideas and thinkers, even in countries lacking Reconstructionist congregations.
In the wake of the Syrian refugee crisis, Congregation Dorshei Emet in Montreal campaigned to sponsor four refugee families. We were happy to hear that the first of the four families arrived in Canada last month.
After nearly a month of birthday celebrations, Isadore Seeman was glad to get a small break before the rush of the High Holy Day activities. Then again, how often do you have the chance to celebrate a 100th birthday?
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