Home > Resource Pages > Classical Reform Judaism Resource Page

Resources on Classical Reform Judaism for Interfaith Families

Among the diversity of opinion and options for Jewish belief and practice available to interfaith couples exploring Judaism is the tradition of Classical Reform Judaism. Classical Reform is an approach that embraces the broad, universal ideals of the early pioneers of the Reform Movement in the United States, who sought to create a distinctive expression of Judaism, grounded in the timeless teachings of the tradition, and reflecting the contemporary values and culture of American democracy.

Classical Reform affirms that Judaism is a religious faith with broad, inclusive values that can embrace all people. Its worship traditions, including an authentically Jewish liturgy that is primarily in English, offer a particularly accessible experience that intermarried couples can fully share together. Its belief that Judaism is primarily a universal spiritual path, rather than an exclusive ethnicity or nationality, can be liberating to interfaith couples.

Principles of the Society for Classical Reform Judaism

The Society for Classical Reform Judaism is a national organization whose major mission is the advocacy of the Classical Reform alternative. Its major principles include:

  • The interpretation of Judaism as a vigorous, vital and dynamic religious and spiritual commitment, rather than as an ethnic or cultural identity.
  • The celebration of our distinctive heritage as American Jews, and the affirmation of an expression of Jewish faith and identity that centers on our life and experience in this free, open and pluralistic society. While we share the concerns and hopes of all our fellow Jews for the wellbeing, peace and security of the State of Israel, our Jewish identity and priorities are not Israel-centered--but focus on our tradition's universal religious and moral vision. We believe that this understanding of Judaism holds great meaning and potential for many American Jews today--particularly the large numbers of our young people in interfaith relationships, who are seeking an accessible and inclusive way to experience Judaism together.

Recommended Articles on Classical Reform Judaism

Synagogues

The following synagogues offer the Classical Reform approach either as their primary worship experience or as an alternative.

Additional Resources on Classical Reform Judaism

Websites

The Society for Classical Reform Judaism - National organization whose major mission is the advocacy of Classical Reform Judaism.

If you know of other Classical Reform resources--or if you'd like to see additional resources on a particular aspect of Classical Reform Judaism--please email us at network@interfaithfamily.com and let us know what you'd like us to provide.

.