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# Reconstructing Judaism

Deeply rooted. Boldly relevant.

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## Posts

- [News](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/)
- [Reconstructing Judaism Endorses Bipartisan Federal Antisemitism Legislation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-endorses-bipartisan-federal-antisemitism-legislation/) - Reconstructing Judaism has joined a broad coalition of Jewish organizations in endorsing the Jewish American Security Act, bipartisan legislation introduced in May 2026 by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and James Lankford (R-OK) to strengthen federal protections for Jewish communities across the country. The bill takes a comprehensive approach to combating antisemitism. Among its key
- [RRC’s New Interim Academic Dean is a Beloved Teacher of Jewish Texts and Ideas](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rrcs-new-interim-academic-dean-is-a-beloved-teacher-of-jewish-texts-and-ideas/) - Rabbi Mira Wasserman, Ph.D., has been appointed RRC’s interim VP for academic affairs & will serve as a key member of Reconstructing Judaism’s leadership team.
- [Reconstructing Judaism Names Rabbi Elliott Tepperman as Next President and Chief Executive Officer](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-names-rabbi-elliott-tepperman-as-next-president-and-chief-executive-officer/) - Longtime Reconstructionist Rabbi to Lead Movement Organization into Its Next Chapter [Wyncote, PA] — Reconstructing Judaism, the central organization of the Reconstructionist Jewish movement, today announced the selection of Rabbi Elliott Tepperman as its next President and Chief Executive Officer. Rabbi Tepperman brings to the role a distinguished record of congregational leadership, community building and
- [Watch Live: RRC's 54th Graduation Ceremony — Sunday, May 17](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/watch-live-rrcs-54th-graduation-ceremony-sunday-may-17/) - Join us this Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 2:30 PM ET as we celebrate the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College’s Fifty-Fourth Graduation Ceremony via livestream. This year’s graduating class — Josie Boskoff, Alana Krivo-Kaufman, Noah Dor Lind, Léah Miller, and Maria Pulzetti — will be ordained alongside the presentation of honorary degrees and awards to distinguished members
- [Marc Overbeck in Times of Israel: A Call to American Jews on Israel, Values, Pride and Responsibility](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/marc-overbeck-in-times-of-israel-a-call-to-american-jews-on-israel-values-pride-and-responsibility/) - Editor's note: Marc Overbeck has been a member of Reconstructing Judaism's Board of Governors since October 2020 and twice served as president of Temple Beth Sholom in Salem, Oregon. In this piece, recently published on The Blogs at the Times of Israel, Marc writes as a Diaspora Jew wrestling honestly with his support for Israel
- [Statement on the Formation of a New Israeli Government](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-on-the-formation-of-a-new-israeli-government/) - The State of Israel and the world’s Jewish Diaspora communities have a relationship built on a common history and shared values. The reality of a ruling coalition in Israel that will include dozens of Knesset members who freely express racist, homophobic and anti-democratic beliefs is frightening and is an anathema to Progressive Judaism.
- [Ethnonationalism is a grave threat to democracy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/ethnonationalism-is-a-grave-threat-to-democracy/) - The Hebrew word for “voice” is kol. Powerfully, it is also the word for “vote.” This election season, we must all raise our voices as loudly as we possibly can to defend democracy and vote for candidates who do so.
- [High Holiday prayers not working for you? Try remixing metaphors](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/high-holiday-prayers-not-working-for-you-try-remixing-metaphors/) - One of the centerpieces of the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur liturgy is the “Avinu Malkeinu” prayer — Our Father, Our King. It’s a desperate and emotional appeal for forgiveness, set to powerful melodies over the centuries.
- [‘This Is Spiritual Work’: Religious Leaders Lay Blueprint For Reparations](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/this-is-spiritual-work-religious-leaders-lay-blueprint-for-reparations/) - For the Jewish leaders in Philadelphia that are starting conversations about reparations in their communities, beginning the process of giving reparations to Black Americans is urgent.
- [The Impossible Dream? Reconstructionist Rabbi Works to Make Israeli-Palestinian Peace a Reality](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/impossible-dream-reconstructionist-rabbi-works-make-israeli-palestinian-peace-reality/) - Rabbi Donna Kirshbaum has never been one to shy away from a challenge. She has operated a dairy farm in the Missouri Ozarks, eked out a living as a classical cellist, enrolled in the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College in her 50s and started a new life in Israel in her 60s. Now a member of Israel’s largest grassroots movement, she is pursuing a goal that’s eluded the world for a century: a negotiated political settlement between the Israelis and Palestinians.
- [A Passover Message From Rabbi Deborah Waxman](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/passover-message/) - Dear friends, We are entering Passover at a fragile time, when fragmentation feels close to the surface. Public discourse is ever more brittle. Democratic norms are strained. Antisemitism has become more visible and more volatile. Within the Jewish community, divisions grow increasingly wider about what matters to prioritize. Passover does not ignore fragmentation. It reframes it. The Exodus story is not preserved so we can rehearse our victimhood. It is preserved so we can remember our obligations.
- [Rabbi Deborah Waxman Joins 1,100 Jewish Clergy in United Statement Supporting Immigrants and Refugees](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-deborah-waxman-joins-1100-jewish-clergy-in-united-statement-supporting-immigrants-and-refugees/) - Reconstructing Judaism President and CEO Rabbi Deborah Waxman is among more than 1,100 Jewish clergy from 45 states who have signed a statement affirming their support and solidarity with immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers in the United States. The statement, released by HIAS on March 11, 2026, is also accompanied by a video in which
- [CEO and President Deborah Waxman at J Street Convention 2026: On War, Democracy, and the Courage to Hold Complexity](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/deborah-waxman-j-street-convention-plenary/) - This is so hard. Everything changes and changes again and then changes again. The world we knew when we entered Shabbat on Friday was gone when we woke up the next day. Suddenly, America is at war and Israel is at war again and millions of people across the Middle East are under attack and seeking shelter, even where no shelters exist. While we have hopes and prayers and ideas and recommendations, we do not know how this will end, and many Americans are devastated at how it started—before every diplomatic avenue was exhaustively pursued and without adequate consultation with or oversight from Congress, in direct violation of the US Constitution.
- [Rabbi Deborah Waxman to Speak at J Street's 2026 Convention](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-deborah-waxman-to-speak-at-j-streets-2026-convention/) - Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., president and CEO of Reconstructing Judaism, will be a featured speaker at J Street's 2026 Convention in Washington, D.C. The four-day event runs February 28 through March 3 at the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill, bringing together Jewish leaders, elected officials, and policy experts for programming on Israel, antisemitism, civil rights,
- [Jewish Cross-Denominational Statement Against Violent Immigration Enforcement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-cross-denominational-statement-against-violent-immigration-enforcement/) - Adding our voices to millions of others across the United States, leaders of the Reform, Conservative/Masorti, and Reconstructionist Movements of Judaism condemn, in the strongest terms, the violence with which the Department of Homeland Security is enforcing American immigration law—above all, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, as well as in cities and towns across the nation.
- [A Message of Solidarity and Hope This Hanukkah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/a-message-of-solidarity-and-hope-this-hanukkah/) - Those of us living in North America woke up yesterday morning to devastating news of a horrific and deadly antisemitic attack on a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, occurring amidst increasing antisemitism in Australia, North America and around the world. We reel as well from reports of yet another deadly shooting spree on the campus of Brown
- [Update on the World Zionist Congress and Reconstructing Judaism's Engagement with Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/update-on-the-world-zionist-congress-and-reconstructing-judaisms-engagement-with-israel/) - Reconstructing Judaism’s engagement with Israel takes many expressions. We prioritize encounters with Israelis from across a broad spectrum of Israeli society—listening and learning from their aspirations, experiences and priorities—to inform our programming and educational offerings.
- [Wisdom from the Bimah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/wisdom-from-the-bimah/) - High Holy Days are an inflection point. They are a time to pause and absorb words of wisdom, comfort, and purpose from the bimah. As Reconstructionists across the country wrestle with the ongoing situation in the Middle East and search for light and joy, we want to share a few recent High Holy Day sermons with you. While our rabbis do not have all the answers, they have some, especially when they hold up a mirror to our collective struggles and speak about them with refreshing candor and insight.
- [WATCH: Inside the Parliament of the Jewish People](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/watch-inside-the-parliament-of-the-jewish-people/) - Why does the World Zionist Congress matter? It directs over $5 billion in global Jewish resources, shaping everything from land policy to religious life to what gets built – and importantly, where. Rabbi Waxman joined “Word on the Street Live” with J Street founder Jeremy Ben-Ami and Rabbi Jill Jacobs, CEO of T’ruah, to offer insight into the inner workings of the World Zionist Congress and to discuss the Reconstructionist values driving the progressive Hatikvah Slate.
- [Rabbi Deborah Waxman in Haaretz: On Rosh Hashanah, We Must Decide Which post-October 7 Jewish Story to Write in the Book of Life](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/on-rosh-hashanah-we-must-decide-which-post-october-7-jewish-story-to-write-in-the-book-of-life/) - In her Haaretz op-ed, Rabbi Deborah Waxman asks what it means to balance care for our own community with compassion for others in a time of profound upheaval.
- [Ritualwell Launches Jewish Writers’ Circles Across the World](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/ritualwell-launches-jewish-writers-circles-across-the-world/) - To respond to the strains Jewish writers are experiencing, Ritualwell is launching a new initiative, Jewish Writers' Circles. Starting this fall in multiple cities across North America and Europe, as many as twenty Jewish Writers’ Circles will meet monthly, with Ritualwell providing session guides and coaching support. These circles will nurture Jewish literary community, strengthen participants’ writing, and enrich their lives with Jewish wisdom.
- [Living Its Values, the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College Reckons With Its Own History](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/living-its-values-reconstructing-judaism-reckons-with-its-own-history/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College is bringing a racial justice lens to the story of its nearly 60-year history, especially when it comes to the context surrounding its 1982 move from North Philadelphia to a nearby suburb.
- [Rabbi Mira Wasserman Confronts Slavery in Jewish Sources](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-mira-wasserman-confronts-slavery-in-jewish-sources/) - Rabbi Mira Wasserman, Ph.D., exemplifies the Reconstructionist approach to challenging Jewish texts by investigating how enslaved people are depicted in the sources.
- [Jeremy Hanson Willis Leads Reconstructing Judaism’s Strategic Advancement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jeremy-hanson-willis-leads-reconstructing-judaisms-strategic-advancement/) - Jeremy Hanson Willis shares how his life, values, and vision shape his new leadership role at Reconstructing Judaism. He speaks about racial justice, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and building a vibrant Jewish future rooted in equity and belonging.
- [Prayer for Groundedness in Troubled Times](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/prayer-for-groundedness-in-troubled-times/) - We are living in tremendously challenging times, where every day and every headline brings difficult news. At this moment of disruption and destruction, we offer a prayer for groundedness and grace.
- [In Sorrow and in Conviction: Reflections After Boulder](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/in-sorrow-and-in-conviction-reflections-after-boulder/) - According to Mordecai Kaplan’s teachings, which have long resonated with me and so many others, to be Jewish in America is to live simultaneously in two rich civilizations, the Jewish and the American civilizations, both full of promise and character-shaping values. To be Jewish in America is to draw deeply from both of these civilizations in order to contribute meaningfully to both of them. As deeply as Kaplan believed this, living it out was often challenging in his day. Increasingly, it is challenging in our day as well.
- [Celebrating Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ+) Pride Month](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/celebrating-lesbian-gay-bisexual-transgender-and-queer-lgbtq-pride-month/) - Jewish communities are embracing meaningful ways to support LGBTQ+ folks and foster inclusive spaces. Below, you’ll find resources and actions to honor Pride Month through a Jewish lens.
- [Statement on Attack at the Capitol Jewish Museum](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-on-attack-at-the-capitol-jewish-museum/) - We mourn the murders of Israeli Embassy staff members Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky outside Washington’s DC Capitol Jewish Museum. This heinous act should shake all of us to the core. An assassination on American soil outside a Jewish communal event is an act of base antisemitism that is irredeemably destructive. A path to a
- [Ahavat Hinam: Creating Covenantal Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/ahavat-hinam-creating-covenantal-community/) - Originally published on The Times of Israel. How do we encourage a sense of belonging, of being part of a tribe, without descending into tribalism? How do we foster community life that is oriented inward and at the same time open to the wider world? How do we bridge differences — of political viewpoints, across
- [Reconstructing Judaism & The RRA joins with over 150 Jewish organizations in letter against proposed cuts to SNAP and Medicaid](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-the-rra-joins-with-over-150-jewish-organizations-in-letter-against-proposed-cuts-to-snap-and-medicaid/) - Reconstructing Judaism and The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have joined together with over 150 other Jewish organizations in a letter to protech SNAP and Medicaid. Read the full letter below. As Congress moves towards cutting hundreds of billions of dollars from federal basic needs programs like SNAP and Medicaid, more than 150 Jewish organizations nationwide wrote to their
- [Beyond Brokenness: How Service Creates Pathways to Healing and Hope](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/beyond-brokenness-how-service-creates-pathways-to-healing-and-hope/) - In this moving reflection, Rabbi Deborah Waxman shares her transformative experience on a service-learning trip to Israel with Yahel and Repair the World. Amid the complexities of a region in conflict, she discovers how hands-on service work—from weeding at a therapeutic farm for veterans to packing food for Bedouin villages—opens pathways to hope, agency and renewal when mere words and meetings cannot.
- [Celebrating Transgender Day of Visibility: Jewish Resources for Allyship and Action](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/celebrating-transgender-day-of-visibility-jewish-resources-for-allyship-and-action/) - Jewish communities are embracing meaningful ways to support transgender rights and foster inclusive spaces. Below, you’ll find resources and actions to honor Transgender Day of Visibility through a Jewish lens.
- [An important announcement from Rabbi Deborah Waxman](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/an-important-announcement-from-rabbi-deborah-waxman/) - With humility and profound gratitude to the Omnipresent, my family and friends, and the extended Reconstructionist community, I am writing to share the news that I will step down as president and CEO of Reconstructing Judaism when my current contract wraps up on August 31, 2026. I am committed to continuing to lead the Reconstructionist
- [Broad Coalition of Mainstream Jewish Organizations Release Statement Rejecting False Choice Between Jewish Safety & Democracy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/broad-coalition-of-mainstream-jewish-organizations-release-statement-rejecting-false-choice-between-jewish-safety-democracy/) - Today, a coalition of ten organizations representing a broad swath of mainstream American Jewry – including three of the four denominations – issued a joint statement rejecting the false choice between confronting antisemitism and upholding democracy. The organizations, which were brought together by the Jewish Council for Public Affairs and include the Religious Action Center
- [Reconstructing Judaism & The RRA Joins Jewish Coalition Opposing Mike Huckabee’s Nomination as U.S. Ambassador to Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-the-rra-joins-jewish-coalition-opposing-mike-huckabees-nomination-as-u-s-ambassador-to-israel/) - Reconstructing Judaism & The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have joined five other Jewish organizations in urging Senators to oppose the confirmation of Governor Mike Huckabee as United States Ambassador to Israel. The coalition expressed deep concerns that Governor Huckabee’s views on Israel and Palestine are out of step with the majority of Jewish Americans and could
- [The Hatikvah Slate: A Progressive Vision for Israel and Jewish Communities](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/the-hatikvah-slate-a-progressive-vision-for-israel-and-jewish-communities/) - If I have the opportunity to be a delegate, I come into it with a sense of urgency. The Jewish people need to build an Israel that is democratic and sustainable and can continue to be a homeland for the Jewish people for generations to come.
- [New Digital Database Set to Transform Reconstructionist Education](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/new-digital-database-set-to-transform-reconstructionist-education/) - The Reconstructionist Education Database goes live March 25, a flick-of-the-digital-switch that will be a boon to educators and learning across the Reconstructionist movement. Hosting troves of curricula in one, searchable spot will not only save educators time but make teaching more effective.
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Turns 5 Years Old](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/virtual-shabbat-box-turns-5-years-old/) - Purim is often described as a holiday of opposites, when up is down and down is up. Almost exactly five years ago, our world was turned upside down by COVID-19. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared a pandemic. Within days, life throughout North America shut down. At a time of heightened anxiety
- [Reconstructing Judaism Joins Multifaith Coalition in Federal Lawsuit in Defense of Religious Freedom and Opposition to ICE Policy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-joins-multifaith-coalition-in-federal-lawsuit-in-defense-of-religious-freedom-and-opposition-to-ice-policy/) - Today Reconstructing Judaism joined with a diverse group of Christian and Jewish denominations in filing a federal lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that would generally prevent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) agents from entering our houses of worship to conduct enforcement actions.
- [JDAIM: How Good it is and How Pleasant for People to Sit Together](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jdaim-how-good-it-is-and-how-pleasant-for-people-to-sit-together/) - Rabbi Asher Sofman, RRC ‘23, is Reconstructing Judaism’s inaugural justice, equity, diversity and inclusion (JEDI) coordinator. Sofman (he/him) is passionate about disability inclusion, which is part of his portfolio. Last year, for Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month (JDAIM) he spearheaded a social media campaign featuring Reconstructionist congregations.
- [Writing Disability Torah: Learning from the Wisdom of the Disability Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/writing-disability-torah-learning-from-the-wisdom-of-the-disability-community/) - Shortly after graduating college six years ago, Rakhel Silverman-Gitin (they/them) organized a Shabbat dinner and received a query from an interested participant. Would the dinner be wheelchair-accessible?
- [Meeting the Unknown, Rabbinical Students Grow Spiritually, Help Others Through Clinical Pastoral Education](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/meeting-the-unknown-rabbinical-students-grow-spiritually-help-others-through-clinical-pastoral-education/) - I didn’t want to do CPE. I was afraid of it,” said Shira Singelenberg, a fifth-year student. “But I don’t know what my rabbinate would look like now if I hadn’t done it. I really loved my experience. It was probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done. It is one of the biggest pieces of my rabbinic formation.”
- [‘All of Israel is Responsible for One Another’ Reconstructionist Convening Models Covenantal Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/all-of-israel-is-responsible-for-one-another-reconstructionist-convening-models-covenantal-community/) - More than 600 people gathered for a packed, Dec. 15 virtual convening exploring “the depth and breadth of Reconstructionist engagement with Israel.” During a time of fractious debate and incivility, the convening modeled “covenantal community,” a Reconstructionist approach to conversation, deep listening and prioritizing relationships — especially in discussion about this most emotional and contentious of issues.
- [BBC Highlights Sharon Kleinbaum, Pioneering Reconstructionist Rabbi](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/bbc-highlights-sharon-kleinbaum-pioneering-reconstructionist-rabbi/) - Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum, RRC ‘90, was named to BBC’s list of the world’s 100 most influential women. The recently retired spiritual leader of New York’s LGBTQ-oriented synagogue, Congregation Beit Simchat Torah (CBST), was one of seven American women on the list.
- [Inspired by Reconstructionist Judaism, Justin Rosen Smolen Aims to Help Communities Thrive](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/inspired-by-reconstructionist-judaism-justin-rosen-smolen-aims-to-help-communities-thrive/) - In this role, Justin Rosen Smolen oversees Reconstructing Judaism’s initiatives supporting nearly 100 congregations worldwide. His team of eight staff members performs a wide scope of work. Among its essential activities, the Thriving Communities Department helps congregations navigate challenges; consults on rabbinic search and transition processes; leads on issues related to Israel, justice and inclusion; and spearheads Reconstructing Judaism’s conventions and other gatherings.
- [Reconstructing Judaism Joins With More Than 55 Jewish Organizations in Opposition to H.R. 9495](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-joins-with-more-than-55-jewish-organizations-in-opposition-to-h-r-9495/) - More than 55 prominentJewish organizations across the United States sent a letter to lawmakers opposing the "Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act" (H.R. 9495).
- [RRC Faculty Member Teaching in Global Day of Jewish Learning](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rrc-faculty-member-teaching-in-global-day-of-jewish-learning/) - Amanda Beckenstein Mbuvi, Ph.D., will teach on “Reading Torah as Family Stories” as part of the Global Day of Jewish Learning.
- [When Our Grief is Collective](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/when-our-grief-is-collective/) - How did we get here? Our nation is so divided, and a majority appears to have chosen the politics of grievance and of anger, anchored in “othering” millions – including many of us, and many of our neighbors. A tremendous number of Americans fear the loss of our democratic norms; the abrogation of our own rights as well as the rights of others; a rejection of our determination to dismantle systemic racism and to combat antisemitism; and an abandonment of rational, fact-based decision-making, let alone basic civility. We are anxious about the fates of people and nations around the world.
- [Reconstructing Judaism and The RRA Sign On Letter Supporting Comprehensive Disaster Relief](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-and-the-rra-sign-on-letter-supporting-comprehensive-disaster-relief/) - Reconstructing Judaism and The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have signed on to this letter with 30+ other Jewish organizations urging Congress to pass comprehensive recovery package for those in need. Read the full letter here.
- [Reconstructionist Rabbi Serving Israeli Families During Wartime](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-rabbi-serving-israeli-families-during-wartime/) - Originally from Kansas, Rabbi Burnstein has lived in Israel since 1996, except for the years he spent in Philadelphia studying at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College. He’s a member of Kibbutz Gezer — halfway between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem — and since 2018 has been the spiritual leader of Kehilat Birkat Shalom. Affiliated with the Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism, Birkat Shalom is based on the kibbutz but serves families throughout central Israel.
- [A Prayer in this Time of Crisis](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/a-prayer-in-this-time-of-crisis/) - On hearing the news of Iran's attack on Israel as we approach Erev Rosh Hashanah, Rabbi Maurice Harris wrote the following prayer.
- [New Artwork Shares Jewish Value That All Our Created ‘B’tselem Elohim’](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/new-artwork-shares-jewish-value-that-all-our-created-btselem-elohim/) - Like many Reconstructionists, Wendy Elliott-Vandivier, an artist and disability activist, has long imagined what a more inclusive Jewish world could be — and has worked to bring it about, particularly in her own community, Or Hadash in Pennsylvania.
- [RRC Establishes Fellowship on Race, Culture and Jewish Ethics](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rrc-establishes-fellowship-on-race-culture-and-jewish-ethics/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College created a new fellowship in race, culture and Jewish ethics as part of its ongoing efforts to cultivate dynamic scholarship, train the next generation of rabbis and dismantle systemic racism in Jewish communities. Amanda Mbuvi, Ph.D., a groundbreaking scholar of Hebrew Bible and Jewish ethics, has been named to the fellowship,
- [Democracy: Reconstructionist Resources for Understanding Our Past and Shaping Our Future](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/democracy-reconstructionist-resources-for-understanding-our-past-and-shaping-our-future/) - Reconstructionist Judaism has, throughout its history, venerated American democracy, elevating representative government to a religious value — while remaining determined to rectify its shortcomings.
- [Cracked Open: An Elul Message from Rabbi Deborah Waxman](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/an-elul-message-from-rabbi-deborah-waxman/) - The month of Elul began earlier this week, accompanied by the dreadful news of the murders of six Israeli hostages, along with another stalemate blocking a meaningful path toward ceasefire and whatever rebuilding must follow. We are shattered. We are hardened.
- [Reconstructing Judaism mourns with the families of the hostages murdered this week](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-mourns-with-the-families-of-the-hostages-murdered-this-week/) - Reconstructing Judaism mourns with the families of the hostages murdered this week: Hersh Goldberg-Polin z”l, Carmel Gat z”l, Ori Danino z”l, Eden Yerushalmi z”l, Alex Lobanov z”l, and Almog Sarusi z”l.
- [Rabbi Deborah Waxman co-authors op-ed on xenophobic dangers and democratic hopes in Israel and U.S.](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-deborah-waxman-co-authors-op-ed-xenophobic-dangers-and-democratic-hopes-israel-and-us/) - These demagogues sow fear and stoke racial tension. They promote an exclusivist, chauvinist white nationalism. But they will not win. Jewish history teaches us that tyranny cannot sustain itself. From Pharaoh to the Roman Emperors to the monarchs who expelled us from multiple parts of Europe, Jews have outlasted the tyrants who have sought our destruction. And we American Jews know that the only way for the Israel-America friendship to survive — and not be tossed out along with these demagogues — is to center our democratic values.
- [Responding to Instability: Democracy and Tisha B’Av](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/responding-to-instability-democracy-and-tisha-bav/) - Looking to make sense of all that’s unfolding in American democracy and absorb it through a Jewish framework? Hoping to add new meaning to Tisha B’Av?
- [Building Bridges Across Identities & Communities: Rabbi Sandra Lawson on Intersectionality](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/building-bridges-across-identities-communities-rabbi-sandra-lawson-on-intersectionality/) - Rabbi Sandra Lawson, last month, delivered the 2024 Pride Keynote Lecture at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburg. Lawson, RRC’ 18, is the inaugural director of diversity, equity and inclusion at Reconstructing Judaism. She titled her talk, “Building Bridges Across Identities & Communities.”
- [RRC Faculty Arrives in Israel for Study Tour to Enhance Rabbinic Education](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rrc-faculty-arrives-in-israel-for-study-tour-to-enhance-rabbinic-education/) - Members of RRC's faculty are taking part in a study tour as an expression of the college’s commitment to Israel education as a core component of the rabbinical school curriculum.
- [57 Fridays: Creating Jewish Ritual to Celebrate Love and Process Loss](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/57-fridays-creating-jewish-ritual-to-celebrate-love-and-process-loss/) - Myra Sack, a scholar-athlete who turned her love of sport into a passion for social change, knows what it means to have her world turned upside down. After losing her child, she’s suffered the kind of loss most people cannot even fathom, yet she’s also discovered that by telling her daughter’s story, she can help others process grief.
- [Ritualwell’s Writers Weave Creativity Though Time and Tradition](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/ritualwells-writers-weave-creativity-though-time-and-tradition/) - ADVOT is a community where writers can express their artistic and spiritual selves in a Jewish context; an address they can join other Jewish writers who are composing from a liturgical, spiritual and ritual mindset.
- [Cyd Weissman: Finding Optimism in the Most Challenging of Times](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/cyd-weissman-finding-optimism-in-the-most-challenging-of-times/) - Cyd, Weissman, Reconstructing Judaism’s vice president for engagement and innovation, was a featured panelist at a high-profile Shavuot program held at the Weitzman Musuem of American Jewish History in Philadelphia and sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. The panel “Only in America: The Evolving Place of Jewish Life and Culture in the United States” kicked off a 12-hour, in-person tikkun-leil Shavuot. The Shavuot custom of staying up all night to study Torah dates back hundreds of years, related to the receiving of Torah at Mount Sinai.
- [‘Dismantling Racism from the Inside Out’](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/dismantling-racism-from-the-inside-out/) - When it comes to combating systemic racism, everyone has something to learn. That’s one reason why faculty members at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College are engaging in a year-long process — one rooted in the Jewish practice of Mussar — to confront anti-Black racism in themselves and the college environment.
- [We remember and hold sacred: Yom HaShoah 2024 / 5784](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/we-remember-and-hold-sacred-yom-hashoah-2024-5784/) - We join Jewish communities around the world in mourning the dead and honoring the countless acts of heroism large and small on the part of all those, Jewish and not, who resisted the Nazis.
- [In response to Iran's attack on Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/in-response-to-irans-attack-on-israel/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA) are deeply alarmed by yesterday’s large-scale attack launched by Iran on Israel involving a barrage of hundreds of missiles and drones.
- [A New Reconstructionist Haggadah Supplement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/a-new-reconstructionist-haggadah-supplement/) - This year, expand the diversity of your Passover seder with our new Haggadah supplement, “Adding JOC Voices to Your Haggadah,” developed by the Tikkun Olam Commission of the Reconstructionist Movement. This free supplement brings you a collection of contemporary commentary on our Passover narrative written by Jews of Color.
- [The Auerbach Launch Grant: An Invitation to Experiment and Create](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/the-auerbach-launch-grant-an-invitation-to-experiment-and-create/) - Rabbi Nicole Fix (RRC ’23) is using avant-garde musical theater to bring the Talmud to the stage — and sound a warning on the dangers of present-day extremism. Chloe Zelkha, a fourth-year RRC student, is building community for young adults grieving the loss of a parent, partner, sibling or close friend. While the two projects might at first glance sound dissimilar, they share much in common. Both engage with young Jewish adults who may lack meaningful connections or are underserved by Jewish institutions. And both projects represent a conscious effort to Reconstruct an aspect of Jewish life so that it meets the needs of the moment.
- [Reconstructionist Rabbi Featured in Netflix Moses Docudrama Series](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-rabbi-featured-in-netflix-moses-docudrama-series/) - When Rabbi Maurice Harris set out to write a book about Moses, he never could have imagined where that work would lead. Now, more than a decade later, Harris is heavily featured in the new Netflix docudrama, Testament: The Story of Moses. The show, which dropped on March 27, is among the streaming platform’s first forays into religion programing. The three-part hybrid-documentary series explores Moses’ story from Jewish, Christian and Muslim perspectives. It intersperses dramatic scenes with actors and interviews with scholars, academics and theologians.
- [Helping Reconstructing Judaism Thrive Is Far More Than a Job for the Organization’s Newest Vice President, It’s a Mission](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/helping-reconstructing-judaism-thrive-is-far-more-than-a-job-for-the-organizations-newest-vice-president-its-a-mission/) - Rachel Swartz Robinson, Reconstructing Judaism’s new vice president for development and philanthropic advisor, knows firsthand the impact that a Reconstructionist approach can have on a family. As it happens, Reconstructionist rabbis were present at two of the most important moments of her life: her wedding and her son’s naming ceremony.
- [Calling on Gantz to reconsider designation of Palestinian human rights and civil society groups as “terrorists”](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/calling-gantz-reconsider-designation-palestinian-human-rights-and-civil-society-groups/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA) and Reconstructing Judaism express deep concern over last week’s decision by Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz to declare six Palestinian human rights groups to be “terror organizations.” Absent compelling evidence, this policy enacts a draconian measure that will criminalize critical human rights work.
- [Jewish Organizational Letter on U.S. Special Envoy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-organizational-letter-us-special-envoy/) - We, the undersigned 21 national Jewish organizations, including the four streams of American Judaism, write to urge you to swiftly fill the position of U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism by considering the current nominee. Filling this position is a high priority for our organizations and of utmost importance in fighting growing antisemitism and hate worldwide.
- [Ritualwell’s ADVOT Creates Poetic Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/ritualwells-advot-creates-poetic-community/) - Before Ritualwell was a website containing more than 2,200 liturgy and rituals crowdsourced by Jews, it was an idea of where to put dozens of scraps of paper in the drawers of offices in the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College and Kolot: Center for Jewish Women’s and Gender Studies in Wyncote.
- [Reconstructing Judaism joins Progressive Israel Network to welcome indefinite postponement of settlement construction in E-1 Area](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-joins-progressive-israel-network-welcome-indefinite-postponement/) - The Progressive Israel Network (PIN) welcomes the news that the Israeli government will not be building Jewish settlements in the E-1 for the near future. We applaud the Biden Administration’s efforts to prevent such construction, and urge them to continue to push back against settlement expansion more broadly.
- [Want to know what makes Reconstructionist rabbis unique?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/want-to-know-what-makes-reconstructionist-rabbis-unique/) - For starters, check out “I’m a Reconstructionist Rabbi…..” a short video that combines offhand humor with wisdom and has drawn chuckles as well as heartfelt comments and, so far, has been played more than 18,000 times on Instagram.
- [Six Years Removed from Policy Shift, Rabbis with Non-Jewish Partners Continue to Embody Reconstructionist Values, Even as Challenges Persist](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbis-with-non-jewish-partners-embody-reconstructionist-values/) - Rabbis Donna Cephas, Sandra Lawson and Michael Hess Webber each took very different paths to becoming Reconstructionist rabbis. Despite disparate journeys, the three religious leaders have continuously demonstrated dedication, creativity and an ability to inspire others. Their stories share an additional element: their paths to the rabbinate were once blocked because their partners are not Jewish.
- [Power to Which People? American Jewish Philanthropy & Democracy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/power-to-which-people-american-jewish-philanthropy-democracy/) - Philanthropy and private giving are a vital part of American democracy and deeply ingrained in Jewish communal life. Historian Lila Corwin Berman, Ph.D., has, through her scholarship, shed light on the history of Jewish philanthropy while raising questions about how it is practiced. Who benefits from philanthropy? Who gets to decide how dollars are spent? Do good intentions lead to good results? Does philanthropy advance democracy?
- [Reconstructing Judaism joins Progressive Israel Network organizations in Letter to Biden](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-joins-progressive-israel-network-organizations-in-letter-to-biden/) - Reconstructing Judaism joins multiple organizations affiliated with the Progressive Israel Network in signing on to a public letter to President Biden at this critical moment in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.
- [Progressive Israel Network Statement on the Crisis in Israel and Gaza](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/progressive-israel-network-statement-on-the-crisis-in-israel-and-gaza/) - Following is a statement by members of the Progressive Israel Network (PIN), a coalition of organizations representing Americans who are committed to pursuing democracy, equality and peace in Israel.
- [Reconstructionist Community Sustained Rabbi Asher Sofman; In New DEI Position, Seeks for Others to Have the Same Gift](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-community-sustained-rabbi-asher-sofman-in-new-dei-position-seeks-for-others-to-have-the-same-gift/) - From his childhood congregation to Camp Havaya and rabbinical school, Rabbi Asher Sofman found his spiritual home in the Reconstructionist movement. Now the 2023 Reconstructionist Rabbinical College (RRC) graduate has joined the Reconstructing Judaism team to help even more people find the same kind of life-affirming, spiritually nourishing community.
- [Songs for the Jewish Climate Movement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/songs-for-the-jewish-climate-movement/) - Several Reconstructionist Rabbinical College graduates and others affiliated with the movement are featured in “Rising Tides, Riding Voices: Songs for the Jewish Climate Movement.”
- [Growing Today’s Jewish Families: New Spiritual and Ethical Perspectives](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/growing-todays-jewish-families-new-spiritual-and-ethical-perspectives/) - Considering adopting a child? Pursuing parenthood through artificial insemination or surrogacy? Interested in using a Jewish framework to think through the myriad ethical questions each path presents? Then be sure to register for the upcoming online learning series, “Growing Today's Jewish Families: New Spiritual and Ethical Perspectives.” The five live sessions, which will be shared on Zoom, begin on Sunday, Jan. 14, at 4:30 p.m. EST, concluding Sunday, March 10, at 4:30 p.m. EST. (See schedule and register here.) The series also includes an array of pre-recorded sessions.
- [Or Zarua Takes a Collective Approach to Synagogue Life](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/or-zarua-takes-a-collective-approach-to-synagogue-life/) - Back in 2017, Rabbi Shelley Barnathan met with 100 prospective members individually over coffee to ask some central questions about what they wanted in a new Reconstructionist synagogue in Philadelphia’s western suburbs. She had just completed rabbinical school after leaving a 32-year career as a language arts teacher. A child of Holocaust survivors, she wanted to realize a childhood dream that wasn’t accessible in her Modern Orthodox community.
- [Talking About Israel During Wartime? Here’s One Reconstructionist Model](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/talking-about-israel-during-wartime-heres-one-reconstructionist-model/) - Members of Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation in Evanston, Ill. — one of the movement’s oldest congregations, and one where the conversation about Israel had long proved polarizing — have shown that such respectful engagement is possible, maybe even necessary. Over the past two months, the congregation has leaned into Reconstructionist values by emphasizing the community’s voice over the rabbi’s and embracing complexity and nuance. Following a process that lasted for about three weeks, entailing thousands of emails, two board meetings and feedback from more than 200 members, the congregation adopted a statement steeped in Jewish values, that declared "All parties must stop the killing to create the conditions for lasting peace.”
- [Course Spotlight: Rabbis in Social Movements](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/course-spotlight-rabbis-in-social-movements/) - When Rabbi Alex Weissman applied to rabbinical school in 2011, he estimates that there were just a handful of rabbis working at social-justice organizations. Fast-forward a dozen years and that number now exceeds several dozen — too many for Weissman to name. Why the dramatic shift? Many advocacy organizations now recognize the role that clergy
- [A Backyard Orchard of Etrog Trees Thrives in Philadelphia](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/a-backyard-orchard-of-etrog-trees-thrives-in-philadelphia/) - About a year ago, West Philadelphia resident and Reconstructing Judaism Assistant Director of Thriving Communities/Tikkun Olam Specialist Rabbi Micah Weiss planted about 75 etrog seeds. Over the year, nearly all germinated, producing little etrog saplings.
- [Reconstructing Judaism and the RRA condemn the attack on Palestinians in Vermont](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-and-the-rra-condemn-the-attack-on-palestinians-in-vermont/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association unequivocally condemn the shooting of three Palestinian students in an alleged hate crime in Vermont over Thanksgiving weekend. We pray for the full recovery of all three students, Hisham Awartani, Kinnan Abdalhamid, and Tahseen Ali Ahmad. Together, our organizations work to create a diverse, connected and engaged Judaism
- [Weighing Our Words](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/weighing-our-words/) - So much about this time continues to be heart-breaking and soul-rending. Here in the United States, far removed from the front lines, one of the things that has been most painful for Rabbi Isaac Saposnik over these last few weeks has been the animus with which members of our Havaya family are engaging with one another – primarily on social media.
- [Shir Hadash chosen for new rabbinic internship program](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/shir-hadash-chosen-for-new-rabbinic-internship-program/) - Shira Singelenberg is a native of Bethesda, Md. She said she grew up in an environment that fostered curiosity and questioning and one in which Shabbat dinner was a revered and memorable time. She received her BA degree from the University of Maryland-Baltimore County, where she majored in history with a minor in medieval and early studies.
- [Wellsprings of Empathy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/wellsprings-of-empathy/) - Rabbi Deborah Waxman explores the stories of Genesis, as well as contemporary thought, in a search for “wellsprings of empathy.” This teaching points toward means of resilience in the extreme uncertainty of the present.
- [Improv Your Writing Craft; Grow as a Person While You’re at It](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/improv-your-writing-craft-grow-as-a-person-while-youre-at-it/) - Rabbi Joshua Boettiger is the kind of religious leader & writer who sees connections in seemingly disparate things, such as the rabbinate and poetry.
- [Virtual Ritualwell Gathering of Poetry and Prayer Provides Space to Grieve and Come Together](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/virtual-ritualwell-gathering-of-poetry-and-prayer-provides-space-to-grieve-and-come-together/) - For 45 minutes, participants had a digital space to be together and hold their intense, conflicting emotions. Presenters recited poems — both their own work, composed in the past days, and the work of other poets — led meditations and recited prayers, such as the Mi Sheberach, a prayer for healing, and the Kaddish, the memorial prayer for the dead. (Here is a link to all the resources recited during the program.)
- [Statement on Today’s Horrific Attacks on Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-on-todays-horrific-attacks-on-israel/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are horrified by today’s massive attack on Israel by Hamas. We condemn the attacks unequivocally and join in solidarity with the people of Israel on this harrowing and difficult day.
- [Writer, Educator, Disability Activist to Lead Ritualwell, Leading Source of Creative Jewish Expression and Writer's Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/writer-educator-disability-activist-to-lead-ritualwell-leading-source-of-creative-jewish-expression-and-writers-community/) - Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer was recently named Ritualwell’s director of virtual content and program, a position she considers her dream job. In this role, she can weave together the multiple strands of her life: her passion for creativity and the arts, her focus on spirituality and writing, her experience in editing and mentoring writers, her commitment to children and families, and making Jewish community and experience accessible to all.
- [Simchat Torah: Returning to the Torah, Again and Again](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/simchat-torah-returning-to-the-torah-again-and-again/) - On Simchat Torah we celebrate the Torah. We celebrate reaching the end, reciting the last words in Deuteronomy, which we follow by turning back to the beginning and reciting the first words in Genesis.
- [Calling All 20 and 30-Somethings](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/calling-all-20-and-30-somethings/) - Reconstructing Judaism wants to hear from you. A group of young people affiliated with the organization have crafted a survey to better understand the needs and experiences of Reconstructionist-affiliated young adults.
- [San Diego’s Lone Reconstructionist Congregation Makes Its Home at the Lawrence Family JCC](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/san-diegos-lone-reconstructionist-congregation-makes-its-home-at-the-lawrence-family-jcc/) - The following piece originally appeared July 9, 2023 in the San Diego Jewish World. This is the 20th chapter in Volume 2 of Editor Emeritus Donald H. Harrison’s 2022 trilogy: “Schlepping and Schmoozing Along the Interstate 5.” All three books as well as others written by Harrison, may be purchased from Amazon.com. Rabbi Yael Ridberg describes herself as
- [‘Stewards of the Movement’ Make Transformative Investment in Reconstructionist Education, Aim to Inspire Philanthropy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/stewards-of-the-movement-make-transformative-investment-in-reconstructionist-education-aim-to-inspire-philanthropy/) - For many years, Ruth Wenger, the daughter of Holocaust survivors, shared her love of learning and passion for Judaism by teaching religious school at Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation, in Evanston, Ill. One weekend, Wenger — a lawyer, philanthropist and Jewish communal leader who helps leads a weekly minyan at the congregation — came home from class
- [Jewish Groups to the Biden Administration: Help Protect Israel from its Government’s Irresponsible Actions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-groups-to-the-biden-administration-help-protect-israel-from-its-governments-irresponsible-actions/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have signed on to this statement urging the Biden administration, as well as fellow US Jewish organizations, to help protect Israel from the irresponsible actions of its current government.
- [Reconstructing Judaism & The RRA Signs on to Open Letter Supporting the Full Inclusion of All LGBTQIA+ Youth](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-the-rra-signs-on-to-open-letter-supporting-the-full-inclusion-of-all-lgbtqia-youth/) - Reconstructing Judaism and The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association has signed on to the open letter supporting the full inclusion of all LGBTQIA+ youth alongside 145 other organizations calling for the full inclusion, protection, and celebration of transgender, nonbinary, and intersex youth. Read the full statement below. July 26, 2023 In Support of Full Inclusion for Transgender
- [Reconstructing Judaism and the RRA Strongly Condemn Knesset Bill](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-and-the-rra-strongly-condemn-knesset-bill/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the RRA strongly condemn this bill and call upon responsible leaders in the Knesset to end this divisive plan that will destroy the checks and balances that preserve Israel's democracy.
- [Rabbi Lily Solochek: Taking K-12 Reconstructionist Education to the Next Level](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-lily-solochek-taking-k-12-reconstructionist-education-to-the-next-level/) - Rabbi Lily Solochek is a key part of a bold new endeavor and has been tasked with taking Reconstructionist education to the next level. They have been named director of Reconstructing Judaism’s new Wenger-Markowitz Family Education Initiative. Funded with a $1 million gift from Reconstructionist leaders Jonathan Markowitz and Ruth Wenger, the initiative will bolster K-12 educational offerings across the Reconstructionist movement.
- [You Should Know…Sophia Barrett](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/you-should-knowsophia-barrett/) - Two years ago, directly following the collapse of a condominium in the heavily Jewish Surfside, Florida, Sophia Barrett traveled from her South Philadelphia home with her crisis response dog, Teddy, to visit the traumatized town. Teddy and Barrett visited the families of the victims of the collapse and first responders looking for missing persons in the rubble. They tried to provide comfort to the community there.
- [Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association join Jewish organizations condemning violent settler attacks on Palestinian communities](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-and-the-reconstructionist-rabbinical-association-join-jewish-organizations-condemning-violent-settler-attacks-on-palestinian-communities/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association join Jewish organizations condemning violent settler attacks on Palestinian communities
- [Call for a Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals by Juneteenth](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/call-for-a-commission-to-study-and-develop-reparation-proposals-by-juneteenth/) - Reconstructing Judaism, The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and 26 other Jewish organizations have signed on to a letter sent to President Biden, urging his administration to establish a commission to study and develop reparation proposals for African Americans through executive order before Juneteenth.
- [Rabbi Deborah Waxman on Israel, Kaplan & Diaspora Jews](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-deborah-waxman-on-israel-kaplan-diaspora-jews/) - There’s much food for thought in this vital web conversation about how non-Orthodox Jews relate to Israel, featuring Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., president and CEO of Reconstructing Judaism. The program was organized by SAPIR, the influential journal of ideas for the Jewish future which recently launched an in-house institute to bring ideas to fruition. Waxman was in conversation with Channan Weissman director of the New SAPIR Institute, a former State Department official and White House liaison to the Jewish community.
- [Reconstructing Judaism joins Progressive Israel Network in welcoming U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-joins-progressive-israel-network-in-welcoming-u-s-national-strategy-to-counter-antisemitism/) - The Progressive Israel Network (PIN) welcomes the Biden administration’s national-level plan to fight antisemitism, a plan that demonstrates the federal government’s commitment to confronting this serious threat.
- [Rabbi Barbara Penzner steps down after 28 years at Temple Hillel B’nai Torah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-barbara-penzner-steps-down-after-28-years-at-temple-hillel-bnai-torah/) - As Rabbi Barbara Penzner reviews her 28 years as senior solo rabbi of Temple Hillel B’nai Torah, a small, urban Reconstructionist congregation in West Roxbury, she told JewishBoston that she feels much gratitude for the community she and her congregation have built over the decades.
- [Congregation Kol Emet Introducing New Outdoor Contemplative Space](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/congregation-kol-emet-introducing-new-outdoor-contemplative-space/) - Congregation Kol Emet’s new outdoor contemplative space is not a big sanctuary with seating for hundreds. It’s a small patch of land with benches and enough seating for perhaps 100 people. But leaders at this Reconstructionist synagogue in Yardley want to use the space for the biggest events in Jewish life, from High Holiday services to bar and bat mitzvahs. They also want to use it for regular activities on the Jewish calendar, like Shabbat services.
- [Reconstructionist Movement Calls for Reparations and Teshuvah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-movement-calls-for-reparations-and-teshuvah/) - The Reconstructionist movement has adopted a Resolution on Reparations, making a commitment to “supporting and advocating for institutional, local and federal legislation and policies that specifically address the need for reparations.” The resolution is a call for communal and national teshuvah, an opportunity for repentance, utilizing a Jewish framework to speak with moral authority on an issue of profound importance to American society and global efforts for justice.
- [Israel is in Danger of Losing American Jewry](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/israel-is-in-danger-of-loosing-american-jewry/) - If ethno-nationalism is bad for Jews as a minority in the Diaspora, then ethno-nationalism practiced by Jews as the majority, holding state power, is also bad.
- [Reconstructionist Rabbinical College Completes Project on Jews and Race](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-rabbinical-college-completes-project-on-jews-and-race/) - The Center for Jewish Ethics, part of the Wyncote-based Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, completed its Race, Religion and American Jews project last month. The project was designed to increase scholarship on the relationship between Jewish peoples, race and racism and disseminate curricula to Jewish educators and adults
- [New Grants Keep Reconstructing Judaism ‘Boldly Relevant’](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/new-grants-keep-reconstructing-judaism-boldly-relevant/) - Two recent grants will help Reconstructing Judaism advance its strategic priorities of pursuing racial justice, investing in rabbinic education and strengthening Jewish communities. The Wabash Center, which funds higher education in religion and theological studies, awarded $30,000 in new funding to Reconstructing Judaism. With this fiscal support, the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College — part of Reconstructing Judaism — wi
- [#StandUpToJewishHate](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/standuptojewishhate/) - Reconstructing Judaism has joined #StandUpToJewishHate, a new national campaign designed to raise awareness of antisemitism and hate targeting. The campaign also aims to empower all people, especially non-Jews, to stand up against it when it impacts their communities.
- [‘Race, Religion and American Jews’: A Wide-Ranging Project Reaches Beyond the Academy, Inviting Conversation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/race-religion-and-american-jews-a-wide-ranging-project-reaches-beyond-the-academy-inviting-conversation/) - As a Black Jewish woman and mother of two biracial sons, Buffie Longmire-Avital has felt compelled to apply some of those same research methods to Jewish households. Yet she lacked the time, funding and support.
- [Reconstructing Judaism and the RRA sign on with 92 other Jewish Organizations to oppose H.R. 734](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-and-the-rra-sign-on-with-92-other-jewish-organizations-to-oppose-h-r-734/) - Reconstructing Judaism and The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joins together with the Union for Reform Judaism, Keshet and 92 other Jewish organizations to oppose H.R. 734. Read the full letter here.
- [Rabbi Sandra Lawson Sings Song of Freedom at White House Passover Seder](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-sandra-lawson-sings-song-of-freedom-at-white-house-passover-seder/) - "As a Jew and an African American, I carry the memory of two groups of people who were once enslaved," said Rabbi Sandra Lawson, RRC’ 18, Reconstructing Judaism’s inaugural director of racial diversity, Justice and inclusion.
- [Passover Message 2023/5783 from Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D.](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/passover-message-2023-5783-from-rabbi-deborah-waxman-ph-d/) - As Passover approaches, I’ve been thinking about the reasons why I’m a religious Jew, sparked significantly by a recent Reconstructionist pilgrimage to civil rights sites in the south. I’m wrestling with how to incorporate this powerful, painful and staggering experience into our celebration of freedom, in a way that respects the experiences of Black people—and Black Jews.
- [What’s Happening in Israel and What Can We Do in This Moment?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/whats-happening-in-israel-and-what-can-we-do-in-this-moment/) - As Israel Affairs Specialist at Reconstructing Judaism, I have many conversations with people across the movement about Israel. Given how fast events have been developing in Israel, a lot of people are asking “what’s happening” and “what can we do?” I’d like to offer some thoughts. What follows is solely my own personal perspective, not
- [LGBTQI+ Rights CSO Letter](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/lgbtqi-rights-cso-letter/) - Reconstructing Judaism & The RRA have signed on to the LGBTQI+ rights CSO letter to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees.
- [Joint Statement by National Organizations and Farm Bill Stakeholder Groups in Support of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-statement-by-national-organizations-and-farm-bill-stakeholder-groups-in-support-of-the-supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/) - Reconstructing Judaism joins nearly 225 national organizations and farm bill stakeholders on this important SNAP Statement of Support.
- [You Should Know... Rabbinical Student Stephanie Breitsman, Inspector of Torah Scrolls](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/you-should-know-rabbinical-student-stephanie-breitsman-inspector-of-torah-scrolls/) - The rabbi in training at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College in Wyncote just felt “anxious around Torah,” she said. Like the people at synagogue who are afraid to volunteer to lift the Torah during services, she was worried she would drop it and offend God … or something like that.
- [2023 Climate Action Plan](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/2023-climate-action-plan/) - In 2022, Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association signed on as a founding partner to the Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition, along with twenty other national and international umbrella organizations of Jewish life.
- [Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association join call on American Jewish organizations to refuse to host Smotrich](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-and-the-reconstructionist-rabbinical-association-join-call-on-american-jewish-organizations-to-refuse-to-host-smotrich/) - We, the undersigned, who care deeply about the security and well-being of the State of Israel, are signing this letter to protest the racism and incitement of long-time settlement movement leader and Netanyahu-appointed Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich who is reportedly planning a trip to the United States. 
- [Shootings, Raids, Killings, and a Pogrom - Responding to Current Violence in Israel and Palestine](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/shootings-raids-killings-and-a-pogrom-responding-to-current-violence-in-israel-and-palestine/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and Reconstructing Judaism condemn the killings of Hallel and Yagel Yamiv, and Elan Ganeles by terrorists in the West Bank. We also condemn those who used these tragedies as an excuse to rampage through the Palestinian town of Huwara, burning homes and cars and killing at least one Palestinian man, Samah Hamdallah Aktas, in what can only be described as a pogrom.
- [Jewish Exponent: Reconstructing Judaism Grows Opportunities for Black and Jewish Community-building](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-exponent-reconstructing-judaism-grows-opportunities-for-black-and-jewish-community-building/) - The pilgrimage is part of Reconstructing Judaism’s intention to build community for Black Jews both within the organization and in the greater Jewish community. On Feb. 9, the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History hosted “Deconstructing Racism to Reconstruct Judaism: The Story of a Pilgrimage Down South,” a panel outlining the event’s significance.
- [Groundbreaking RRC Policy Impacting the Jewish World, Enhancing the Rabbinate](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/groundbreaking-rrc-policy-impacting-the-jewish-world/) - When the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College changed our admissions policy to allow for the possibility that Jews partnered with non-Jews could become rabbis, we did so out of the understanding that in the 21st-century Jewish behavior and commitments--religious, cultural, secular--are more important than Jewish status. We acted to meet Jews in the realities of their complex lives—to engage with them, to raise up leaders from among them, and together to build the Jewish future. We have been inspired and moved by the powerful and passionate students who have enrolled at RRC since this policy change, some because of their non-Jewish partners and more in support of this principle.
- [100+ Jewish groups sign onto open letter to Elon Musk on Twitter antisemitism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/100-jewish-groups-sign-onto-open-letter-to-elon-musk-on-twitter-antisemitism/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have signed on to an open letter to Elon Musk alongside 100+ Jewish organizations denouncing antisemitism on Twitter. Numerous racists and bigots who had been banned from the social media platform have been reinstated since Musk took over.
- [‘Deconstructing Racism to Reconstruct Judaism’: The Story of a 'Life-Giving' Pilgrimage to the South](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/deconstructing-racism-to-reconstruct-judaism-the-story-of-a-transformative-pilgrimage-to-the-south/) - The pilgrimage to the South for Jews of African descent who serve as leaders of the Reconstructionist movement was fully funded by Reconstructing Judaism. Participants were able to engage in healing work and visit sites imbued with trauma within a Jewish and Black context.
- [A Clarion Call against Ethnonatioanlism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/a-clarion-call-against-ethnonatioanlism/) - This letter, along with the growing number of statements of protest from many quarters of the Jewish community, is a clarion call. These statements communicate that this government and what it espouses are not normal and should not be normalized. They seize the opportunity to reassert the kind of Zionism championed by Justice Louis Brandeis, who equated Zionism with American democracy, and who believed in a Zionism dedicated to giving social justice and democratic values expanded expression.
- [You Should Know …. Rabbi Alex Weissman](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/you-should-know-rabbi-alex-weissman/) - Rabbi Alex Weissman remembers walking into the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College in Wyncote for the first time. It was November 2010, and he was a 27-year-old Tufts University graduate who had held a few jobs with community and service-minded organizations.
- [Familiar Faces Return to RRC to Mentor Future Rabbis](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/familiar-faces-return-rrc-to-mentor-future-rabbis/) - As the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College continues to hone rabbinic education to meet the needs of rapidly changing Jewish communities, it has tapped two members of its 2017 graduating class to help put its ambitious plans into practice.
- [Jewish Rohingya Justice Network Statement on Genocide Prevention Day](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-rohingya-justice-network-statement-on-genocide-prevention-day/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have signed on to Jewish Rohingya Justice Network's Statement on Genocide Prevention Day.
- [The Situation in Hebron is Oppressive: Rabbi Deborah Waxman](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/the-situation-in-hebron-is-oppressive-rabbi-deborah-waxman/) - My needles moved rhythmically, creating orderly rows of delicate knots as we rolled into the center of Hebron that Thursday afternoon. When I got off the bus and looked around, I could hardly recognize the place I’d visited as an adolescent.
- [Ritualwell and Reconstructionist Press Stores Are Now Read & Rite](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/ritualwell-and-reconstructionist-press-stores-are-now-read-rite/) - The streamlined, user-friendly site is a combination of the former Ritualwell online store and Reconstructionist Press store, explains Adva Chattler, managing director of engagement and innovation at Reconstructing Judaism.
- [Reconstructing the Voice of Leadership](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-the-voice-of-leadership/) - Reconstructing Judaism plays a leading role in addressing systemic racism in Jewish communities and serving as a moral voice in a larger public reckoning. One of the powerful ways the organization does this is by nurturing Jews of Color in leadership positions, as rabbis and community leaders.
- [Baltimore Jewish Times Spotlights Jackie Land](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/baltimore-jewish-times-spotlights-jackie-land/) - You could say that Jackie Land has been on the ground floor of change within the Reconstructionist movement of Judaism. For one, it’s in her blood — quite literally.
- [Jewish Teachings on Resilience](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-teachings-on-resilience/) - On Shabbat Sukkot, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, president and CEO of Reconstructing Judaism, spoke at Philadelphia’s Mishkan Shalom. The talk focused on how Jewish practices and rituals cultivate resilience within individuals and communities — sustaining the Jewish people through the centuries and millennia. S
- [Baltimore Jewish Times Features Kol HaLev](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/baltimore-jewish-times-features-kol-halev/) - Sunday school is no longer just for youngsters at Kol HaLev, a Baltimore-area Reconstructionist synagogue.
- [Improve the lives of all as part of the ethical legacy of Sukkot](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/improve-the-lives-of-all-as-part-of-the-ethical-legacy-of-sukkot/) - As someone who had been a Jewish community organizer prior to rabbinical school, this was the sort of Jewish ritual I was accustomed to, linking contemporary politics to ancient practices, if not quite on this large a scale.
- [Philadelphia Jewish Exponent Features Or Hadash: A Reconstructionist Congregation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/philadelphia-jewish-exponent-features-or-hadash-a-reconstructionist-congregation/) - The synagogue emerged as an offshoot of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College. But in 1989, it separated itself from the college to show that the new denomination could survive.
- [JPro22: Going Places Together](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jpro22-going-places-together/) - More than 1,200 Jewish communal professionals gathered May 2-4 in Cleveland for “JPro22: Going Places Together.” One of the largest Jewish professional gatherings since the start of the pandemic, the conference represented a profound moment of reconnection and meaning making. JPro connects, educates, inspires and empowers professionals working in the Jewish community sector. Rabbi Deborah Waxman,
- [Race, Religion and American Jews: Starting a Conversation between Scholars and the Public](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/race-religion-and-american-jews-starting-a-conversation-between-scholars-and-the-public/) - When it comes to groundbreaking research, it usually takes years for new work to appear in an academic publication and, often, it fails to reach the public in a meaningful way. The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College’s Center for Jewish Ethics is trying a different approach.
- [Standing in solidarity with the Rohingya People](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/standing-in-solidarity-with-the-rohingya-people/) - As founding members of the Jewish Rohingya Justice Network, Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined a letter to Secretary Anthony Blinken expressing ongoing solidarity with the Rohingya people, five years after the Burmese military waged a genocidal campaign that resultedin mass displacement, death, sexual violence, and other atrocities.
- [One Educator’s Passion for Reconstructionist Judaism, 44 Years and Counting](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/one-educators-passion-for-reconstructionist-judaism-44-years-and-counting/) - For Jackie Land, a lifelong educator, that passion is fueled by the Reconstructionist commitment to egalitarianism and democracy: how each community makes decisions for itself on how best to live Reconstructionist values.
- [Reconstructing Judaism is proud to be a founding partner of the Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-is-proud-to-be-a-founding-partner-of-the-jewish-climate-leadership-coalition/) - Major Jewish organizations are coming together to launch the Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition, a coalition of Jewish community organizations who recognize the existential threat and moral urgency of climate change and are committed to taking action. 
- [Artists in Pursuit of Repairing the World](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/artists-in-pursuit-of-repairing-the-world/) - Reconstructioning Judaism commissioned two Black Jewish artists affiliated with the movement — Ayeola Omolara Kaplan and Marjorie Attingol Salvodon — to respond to last year’s Movement Wide Day of Learning on Reparations.
- [Three Words of Advice for New Leaders in the Jewish Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/three-words-of-advice-for-new-leaders-in-the-jewish-community/) - Being a leader requires ongoing learning. You can’t learn to lead by attending a week-long conference or by doing it for a year or two. Rather, we want to impress the idea that learning to be a leader is a lifetime of study and practice.
- [Urging Foreign Assistance for Abortion Funding](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/urging-foreign-assistance-for-abortion-funding/) - Reconstructing Judaism joins a diverse group of more than 100 U.S. and international organizations in sending a letter to the U.S. State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) urging that foreign assistance funding for abortion care be authorized immediately “to the full extent of the law.” The letter says that the recent U.S.
- [Last Word: Rabbi Jacob Staub Reconnects with Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/last-word-rabbi-jacob-staub-reconnects-with-judaism/) - Rabbi Jacob Staub, Ph..D., is director of the online platform Evolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations and professor emeritus of Jewish philosophy and spirituality and director of the Jewish Spiritual Direction Program at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College in Wyncote, the path to embracing Judaism really was a reconstruction.
- [Parallel Lines: A Poet’s Journey into Expression, Judaism and Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/parallel-lines-a-poets-journey-into-expression-judaism-and-community/) - “It is clear at Ritualwell how values from the Reconstructionist movement are expressed in the creativity of inviting people to create their own rituals,” she says. “It’s empowering to write one’s own prayers and to create spaces for people who never had a voice in Judaism. To me, that inclusive spirit is very much the place that I wanted to be in as a Jew and as a writer, and I think that’s what we are doing at Ritualwell.” 
- [Reconstructionist movement in solidarity with Israeli organizations protesting raids on Palestinian human rights groups](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/recon-movement-solidarity-with-israeli-orgs/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have signed on to a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken calling on the U.S. Administration to urge Israel’s government to provide clear evidence of terrorism or reverse course in its policies towards the affected organizations.
- [The occupation is at the heart of the stream of painful headlines coming from Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/the-occupation-is-at-the-heart-of-the-stream-of-painful-headlines-coming-from-israel/) - A statement from Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association: The headlines concerning Israel during the month of May were painful. Israel’s supreme court issued a ruling that authorizes the razing of several Palestinian villages and the forcible eviction of over 1000 Palestinians from the Masafer Yatta region in the West Bank. Some of these
- [In 2020, Reconstructionist Communities Prove More Vital (and Adaptive) Than Ever](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/2020-reconstructionist-communities-prove-more-vital-and-adaptive-ever/) - 2020 has been a year defined by pandemic, economic collapse, protests for racial justice, political disarray and, in the case of much of the West Coast, catastrophic fires. Yet Jewish life went on, proving to be both adaptable and vital. Reconstructionist congregations have adapted, based on millennia of precedents and an unceasing commitment to community.
- [Shaped by Tucson, Bringing Her Whole Self to the Rabbinate](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/shaped-by-tucson-bringing-her-whole-self-to-the-rabbinate/) - Growing up in Tucson, Alanna “Lonnie” Kleinman did not know any female rabbis or any religious leaders who identified as LGTBQ. Now Kleinman is joining a much more diverse rabbinate, one that more fully reflects the fullness of Jewish communities. Growing up in Tucson, Alanna “Lonnie” Kleinman did not know any female rabbis or any religious leaders who identified as LGTBQ. Now Kleinman is joining a much more diverse rabbinate, one that more fully reflects the fullness of Jewish communities.
- [Reconstructionist Rabbinical College Honors Donald Shapiro of Lenox](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-rabbinical-college-honors-donald-shapiro-of-lenox/) - On May 22, Donald L. Shapiro, a philanthropist and Reconstructionist movement leader, was honored at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College's 50th graduation ceremony. Shapiro is the founder of Vector Reality Associates, the real estate development firm, and is a longtime member of Reconstructing Judaism’s board of directors and past president of the college.
- [‘What It Means to Be Human in an Algorithmized World’](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/what-it-means-to-be-human-in-an-algorithmized-world/) - Legal scholar, philosopher and policy analyst Nathalie Smuha spends a lot of time thinking, writing and advising about artificial intelligence. Namely, Smuha believes that society’s increasing reliance on algorithms presents pressing legal and moral questions — and governments, corporations and citizens are not paying enough attention.
- [Rabbi Sandra Lawson Named to Prestigious Fellowship Focusing on Leadership Development](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-sandra-lawson-named-to-prestigious-fellowship-focusing-on-leadership-development/) - Rabbi Sandra Lawson, Reconstructing Judaism’s inaugural director of racial diversity, equity and inclusion, has been selected to the Schusterman Fellowship. That’s a prestigious, 18-month program run by Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies. According to its website, the Schusterman Fellowship “is a holistic leadership development program for exceptional Jewish leaders committed to driving change in
- [After Roe](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/after-roe/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA) and Reconstructing Judaism denounce the Supreme Court’s decision to suppress both bodily autonomy and religious freedom. The RRA and Reconstructing Judaism have long supported access to abortion care as a human right.
- [Re-imagining Shabbat](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/re-imagining-shabbat/) - Zoom Shabbat minyan has done little for me. I’ve tried it repeatedly. But I find praying or learning via Zoom more work-like than spirit-filled. So for pandemic Shabbat enrichment, I regularly access Reconstructing Judaism’s Virtual Shabbat Box (VSB). Every Thursday, with contactless delivery, the VSB arrives in my inbox. I click to find a variety of ways to engage while sitting on my sofa. Essays, videos, poetry, podcasts are weekly offered in the VSB and a welcomed part of my re-imagined Shabbat experience.
- [Black Joy and Reconstructionist Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/black-joy-and-reconstructionist-community/) - There is a wonderful viral trend on TikTok of Black men frolicking in the fields. This trend, which can come across as light-hearted, demonstrates something deeply precious: Black Joy. This example of Black Joy highlights Black men being joyful, playful, having fun, and feeling free to be themselves. Why is this trend so awesome? Because
- [Former Journalist Finds Calling Later in Life — as a Rabbi](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/former-journalist-finds-calling-later-in-life-as-a-rabbi/) - What if you found your calling after your first career ended — when you were already passing middle age? Would you pursue it? Or would you just say forget it, I’m too old? David N. Goodman, 69, decided to pursue it.
- [No Words ...](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/no-words/) - The horror of what happened yesterday in Uvalde is almost too much to comprehend. They were children. And they were killed by a child. How is that possible? This is not how it’s supposed to be. When we send our kids to school, we should expect them to learn, to grow, to run around, to
- [Response to Buffalo Shooting](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/response-buffalo-shooting/) - As leaders of Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, we cry out in grief and pain at the senseless deaths of 11 people in Buffalo and Laguna Woods this past weekend. After we express our sorrow and our solidarity, we recommit to bringing to life a reality that counters the hatred and violence espoused
- [Twin Milestones Mark a Century of Reconstructionist Innovation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/twin-milestones-mark-century-reconstructionist-innovation/) - By the standards of geology, 100 years is a nanosecond. Yet stretching farther than most human lives, a century tests the limits of human perspective. In 1922, thanks to the ratification of the 19th amendment, American women had just gained universal suffrage (though it would be decades before many women of color could exercise that right in practice). Also that year, the first radio was installed in the Harding White House, the Lincoln Memorial was dedicated, and construction began on New York’s Yankee Stadium.
- [Watch & Listen: Let Silence be Praise for God](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/let-silence-be-praise-for-god/) - Reconstructionist Judaism offers a spiritual and communal home to all who seek connection and meaning. And the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College trains diverse and dynamic rabbis who make Jewish experiences accessible to all.
- [Joint Letter Supporting EACH Woman Act](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-letter-supporting-each-woman-act/) - Joint letter from 20 American Jewish organizations and communities supporting the EACH Woman Act to end bans on abortion coverage.
- [Letter Opposing H.R. 4731's Dismantling of Refugee Program](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-opposing-hr-4731s-dismantling-refugee-program/) - RRC/JRC joined a letter signed by 234 organizations opposing H.R. 4731, the “Refugee Program Integrity Restoration Act of 2016,” which would have dismantled the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program.
- [Joint Letter Urging Vote on Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-letter-urging-vote-caesar-syria-civilian-protection-act/) - Joint letter from Jewish organizations and rabbis urging action to protect Syrian civilians
- [Joint Letter on Racism, Xenophobia and Violence in 2016 Campaign](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-letter-racism-xenophobia-and-violence-2016-campaign/) - Joint letter from 28 Jewish groups imploring political candidates to put an end to the racism, anti-Semitism and xenophobia that has emerged in this year’s campaign.
- [Joint Letter on Price Nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-letter-price-nomination-secretary-health-and-human-services/) - RRC/JRC joined this interfaith letter opposing the nomination of Tom Price as Secretary of Health and Human Services.
- [Amicus Brief: Opposing Travel and Refugee Ban, 4th Circuit](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-opposing-travel-and-refugee-ban-4th-circuit/) - Reconstructionist institutions signed onto an interfaith Amicus Curiae brief to the 4th Circuit opposing the Executive Order travel ban.
- [Amicus Brief: Opposing Travel and Refugee Ban, 9th Circuit](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-opposing-travel-and-refugee-ban-9th-circuit/) - Reconstructionist institutions signed onto an interfaith Amicus Curiae brief to the 9th Circuit opposing the Executive Order travel ban.
- [Amicus Brief: EEOC vs. Harris Funeral Homes](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-eeoc-vs-harris-funeral-homes/) - RRC/JRC and the RRA joined this brief in opposition to the asserted right of a for-profit employer to fire a transgender female employee based on religious beliefs about sex roles and gender identity.
- [Joint Letter Calling for Syrian Refugee Resettlement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-letter-calling-syrian-refugee-resettlement/) - On April 27th, RRC/JRC co-signed a letter with 36 national organizations calling on President Trump to resettle more Syrian refugees after the horrific chemical attacks on Syrians earlier in the month.
- [Joint Statement on Israel Conversion Bill](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-statement-israel-conversion-bill/) - RRC/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities joined a statement strongly opposing a bill proposed by Israel’s Ministry of the Interior, which would nullify Israel’s recognition of Reform and Conservative conversions performed in Israel, as well as overturn Israel’s High Court ruling requiring the Ministry to recognize Orthodox conversions performed by private rabbinic courts.
- [Joint Letter Urging Support for Haitians at Risk of Deportation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-letter-urging-support-haitians-risk-deportation/) - RRC/JRC joined more than 400 faith leaders and organizations in this letter urging Secretary of Homeland Security John Kelly to extend Haitian refugees’ Temporary Protected Status.
- [Joint Letter Opposing H2431 ("SAFE Act")](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-letter-opposing-h2431-safe-act/) - RRC and Jewish Reconstructionist Communities were among nearly 200 local and national organizations to sign this joint letter asking House Judiciary Committee members to oppose H.R. 2431 as a draconian measure that would criminalize undocumented immigrants and undermine due process protections.
- [Faith Organization Letter Against Funding the Commission on Election Integrity](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/faith-organization-letter-against-funding-commission-election-integrity/) - RRC/JRC signed onto a letter by faith organizations opposing funding of the proposed “Commission on Election Integrity,” calling on Congress to resist efforts to restrict the right to vote.
- [Public Letter on Anti-Muslim Marches](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/public-letter-anti-muslim-marches/) - Reconstructionist leaders joined other faith leaders in a letter from Shoulder to Shoulder speaking out against anti-Muslim behavior. Shoulder to Shoulder is a coalition of 32 religious denominations and organizations committed to standing with American Muslims to uphold American values.
- [Endorsement of Letter on Middle-East Peace](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/endorsement-letter-middle-east-peace/) - Reconstructionist leaders were among the 35 Jewish, Christian, and Muslim national religious leaders sending a letter to President Trump agreeing that Israeli-Palestinian peace is possible.
- [Faith Voices Letter in Support of Keeping Houses of Worship Non-Partisan](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/faith-voices-letter-support-keeping-houses-worship-non-partisan/) - Reconstructionist leaders were among the more than 4000 signatories to a letter urging the U.S. Senate not to repeal or weaken current law that prevents tax-exempt religious organizations from partisan political endorsements.
- [Statement by the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association on Foregoing Annual High Holy Day Call with Trump](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-reconstructionist-rabbinical-association-foregoing-annual-high-holy-day-call/) - The RRA and America’s other leading rabbinic organizations have decided, in light of President Trump’s statements during and after the tragic events in Charlottesville, so lacking in moral leadership and empathy for the victims of racial and religious hatred, that we cannot organize a rabbinic call with the president this year.
- [Letter in Support of OFF (Off Fossil Fuels) Act](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-support-fossil-fuels-act/) - RRC/JRC signed onto a letter urging members of Congress to support HR-3671, “Off Fossil Fuels for a Better Future Act.”
- [Joint Filing Opposing Anti-LGBTQ Religious Exemptions in Supreme Court Case](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-opposing-religious-exemptions/) - Reconstructionist leaders joined an amicus brief in a Supreme Court case, urging against religiously-based exemptions to anti-LGBTQ discrimination.
- [Open Letter on Burma Human Rights and Freedom Act](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/open-letter-burma-human-rights-and-freedom-act/) - In the face of unconscionable atrocities against the Rohingya people by the Burmese military, RRC/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities joined a broad coalition of organizations from across the Jewish community to press for the immediate passage of the Burma Human Rights and Freedom Act of 2017.
- [National Jewish Letter on DREAM Act](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/national-jewish-letter-dream-act/) - RRC/JRC signed onto a letter urging members of Congress to support the bipartisan DREAM Act.
- [Letter Urging Israel to Halt Deportation of Asylum-Seekers](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-urging-israel-halt-deportation-asylum-seekers/) - Reconstructionist leaders were among the early signatories of this letter urging the Israeli government to stop the deportations of asylum seekers from Sudan and Eritrea who have sought refuge in Israel.
- [Amicus Brief Supporting Unions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-supporting-unions/) - Reconstructionist organizations joined an amicus curiae brief by religious organizations in support of the rights of unions.
- [An Open Letter Concerning the Safety and Future of African Asylum Seekers](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/open-letter-concerning-safety-and-future-african-asylum-seekers/) - In an open letter to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Reconstructing Judaism and the other undersigned organizations urge him to pursue a humane solution for the 39,000 asylum seekers currently within Israel’s borders.
- [National Jewish Group Letter supporting the Americans with Disabilities Act](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/national-jewish-group-letter-supporting-americans-disabilities-act/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among the 55 national Jewish groups joining together in a letter to Senate leaders opposing the House-passed ADA Education and Reform Act (H.R. 620), legislation which would turn back the clock on the civil rights of people with disabilities by weakening the 28-year old Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- [Joint Letter Urging Secretary of State to Fill Anti-Semitism Special Envoy Position](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-letter-urging-secretary-state-fill-anti-semitism-special-envoy-position/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among the organizational signatories of a letter directed to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, urging him to fill the vacant position of Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism.
- [Letter of Concern Regarding Human Rights in Burma](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-concern-regarding-human-rights-burma/) - Reconstructing Judaism is among 46 organizations signing onto a letter of concern by Human Rights Watch about Burma’s human rights record, addressed to the US House and Senate Armed Services Committees.
- [Amicus brief in California vs. Azar](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-california-vs-azar/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association signed onto an amicus curiae brief challenging religious organizations’ claim to be exempt from from providing, and empowered to block access to, women’s contraceptive services for their employees. Reconstructing Judaism believes both in the importance of the separation of church and state and that the reproductive rights of women must be preserved and protected.
- [Jewish Communal Letter on Refugee Admissions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-communal-letter-refugee-admissions/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among the 36 Jewish organizations that signed onto a letter urging President Trump to support a safe and strong U.S. refugee admissions program that represents the best of America.
- [Letter Opposing Plans to Adopt Legal Definition of Sex](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-opposing-plans-adopt-legal-definition-sex/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among sixteen national Jewish organizations expressing opposition to a proposed restrictive legal definition of sex that would effectively define out of existence the gender identities of millions of people.
- [Letter Opposing Repeal of Johnson Amendment](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-opposing-repeal-johnson-amendment/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 109 organizations sending a letter to the House of Representatives, urging them not to repeal or weaken the “Johnson Amendment” that currently ensures that tax-exempt organizations do not support or oppose candidates for political office.
- [Reconstructing Judaism Joins Amicus Brief Challenging Constitutionality of Government Sponsorship of Religious Symbols](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/bladensburg-cross-amicus-brief/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined an amicus curiae brief urging the U.S. Supreme Court to affirm that religious symbols erected on public property and maintained with taxpayer dollars are unconstitutional.
- [Letter Opposing Repeal of Johnson Amendment (April 2019)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-opposing-repeal-johnson-amendment-april-2019/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 131 organizations sending a letter to the House Ways and Means and Senate Finance committes, urging them not to repeal or weaken the “Johnson Amendment” that currently ensures that tax-exempt organizations do not support or oppose candidates for political office.
- [Letter on Religious Discrimination in Foster Care](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-religious-discrimination-foster-care/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined more than 100 organizations in protest of the recent decision to exempt federally funded foster care agencies in South Carolina from federal religious nondiscrimination protections.
- [Statement Opposing Restrictions on Food Aid](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-opposing-restrictions-food-aid/) - Reconstructing Judaism joined 35 national faith-based organizations in a statement opposing attempts to restrict states from providing food aid to the hungry.
- [Amicus Brief Affirming Boston Policy Against Endorsing Religious Symbols](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-affirming-boston-policy-against-endorsing-religious-symbols/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association signed onto a friend-of-the-court brief filed by Americans United in the case of Shurtleff vs. City of Boston, urging a federal appeals court to uphold the constitutionality of Boston’s policy against flying religious flags in front of City Hall due to such an act’s violation of the Establishment Clause.
- [Letter opposing nomination of Ronald Mortensen](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-opposing-nomination-ronald-mortensen/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among sixteen national Jewish organizations signing onto a letter of opposition to the nomination of Ronald Mortensen, an anti-immigrant extremist, as assistant secretary of state for the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration.
- [Jewish Rohingya Justice Network Supports Bipartisan Legislation on Burma](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-rohingya-justice-network-supports-bipartisan-legislation-burma/) - The American Jewish community stands united against the genocide of the Rohingya people and the persecution of all ethnic minorities in Burma. We applaud the bipartisan group of lawmakers in the Senate for their moral courage and leadership in introducing powerful legislation that would authorize humanitarian assistance for Rohingya refugees and hold the Burmese military officials responsible for this persecution accountable.
- [Letter in support of the Never Again (Holocaust) Education Act](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-support-never-again-holocaust-education-act/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among more than 300 organizations to support the Never Again Education Act (H.R. 943). The attached letter, sent to the chair and ranking member of the House Committee on Education and Labor, urges the swift passage of the bill, which uses public funding and private donations to provide teachers with resources and training on lessons of the Holocaust and the consequences of bigotry and hate.
- [Letter to Tennessee Legislation on Child Welfare](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-tennessee-legislation-child-welfare/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were signatories to a letter objecting to the Tennessee legislature’s proposed legislation that would allow federally funded foster care and adoption agencies to practice taxpayer-funded religious discrimination against potential adoptive and foster parents.
- [Letter to New York Times Regarding Antisemitic Cartoon](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-new-york-times-regarding-antisemitic-cartoon/) - Reconstructing Judaism was a signatory to a letter that the the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA) sent to the New York Times Executive Editor condemning the Antisemitic cartoon published on April 25, 2019, and urging tangible steps to ensure that such inflammatory material will not be published in the future.
- [Resolution on Rohingya Genocide](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/resolution-rohingya-genocide/) - In May of 2019, the board of Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association adopted this resolution condemining genocide of the Rohingya people of Burma and urging action.
- [Statement Supporting Equality Act](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-supporting-equality-act/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Assocation were among 15 national Jewish organizations writing Congress in support of the Equality Act (H.R. 5). Driven by our Jewish values, we are committed to supporting laws that protect the civil rights and individual liberties of all people. The Equality Act is a significant step forward for the LGBTQ community, and we urge Congress to swiftly pass this important bill.
- [Letter Opposing Rollback of Predatory Lending Protections](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-opposing-rollback-predatory-lending-protections/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Assocation were among seventeen Jewish organizations writing to the Consumer Protection Finance Bureau in opposition to an administration proposal to rescind protections against predatory lending.
- [Endorsement of House Resolution in Support of Two-State Solution](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/endorsement-house-resolution-support-two-state-solution/) - Reconstructing Judaism joins nine other Jewish organizations in endorsing House Resolution 326, which reaffirms longstanding bipartisan support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and opposes any US actions that would encourage or endorse unilateral Israeli annexations in the West Bank.
- [Letter in Opposition to "US Commission on Unalienable Rights"](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-opposition-us-commission-unalienable-rights/) - Reconstructing Judaism joined 430 human rights, civil rights, faith, and professional organizations, leaders, and scholars in an open letter expressing deep concern about the State Department’s recently announced Commission on Unalienable Rights. The signers object to the Commission’s stated purpose, which they believe is harmful to the global effort to protect the rights of all peopl
- [Joint Letter on Refugee Policy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-letter-refugee-policy/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have joined with 166 Jewish organizations and institutions in urging the United States to return to historic numbers for refugee resettlement. “The United States has historically distinguished itself as a beacon of hope and as a safe haven for those who most need it… Resettling zero refugees in the U.S. in FY2020 would effectively gut the refugee resettlement program, violate our values as Jews and Americans, and abdicate the American promise of freedom and opportunity.”
- [Statement by Congregation Dor Hadash on Justice Department Decision to Seek Death Penalty](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-dor-hadash-justice-department-decision-seek-death-penalty/) - Yesterday, we learned that the U.S. Justice Department will seek the death penalty against the suspected shooter in the 2018 mass shooting that devastated three congregations and rocked the entire North American Jewish community. Reconstructing Judaism is proud to share this moving statement from our Pittsburgh affiliate, Congregation Dor Hadash. And we note that Jewish tradition is weighted heavily against the use of the death penalty.
- [Brief Asking Federal Court to Reverse Ruling Allowing Strip Searches of Female Inmates As Training Exercise](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/brief-asking-federal-court-reverse-ruling-allowing-strip-searches-female-inmates/) - We ask the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit to re-hear and reverse a ruling that found that staff at an Illinois prison did not violate the Constitution when they forced female inmates to engage in a deeply humiliating and dehumanizing strip search as part of a training exercise. The ruling “opens the door to other violation of prisoners’ First Amendement religious freedom rights and protections.”
- [Endorsement of  HEAL for Immigrant Women and Families Act](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/endorsement-heal-immigrant-women-and-families-act/) - Reconstructing Judaism endorses the Health Equity and Access under the Law (HEAL) for Immigrant Women and Families Act of 2019
- [Request To The United Nations To Call For A Global Ban On Fracking](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/request-united-nations-call-global-ban-fracking/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined over 400 signatories to a letter to the UN Secretary General calling for a ban on fracking.
- [Amicus Brief Challenging Excessively-Broad Religious Exemptions for Health Care Employees](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-challenging-excessively-broad-religious-exemptions-health-care-employees/) - Reconstructing Judaism joined an amicus brief submitted by the ADL and Americans United for Separation of Church and State to challenge the Conscience Rights in Health Care Rule issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in 2018.
- [Statement Urging Renewal of Violence Against Women Act](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-urging-renewal-violence-against-women-act/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined over 200 national and local organizations to urge the U.S. Senate to pass the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act.
- [Interfaith Letter in Support of Title X Funding](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/interfaith-letter-support-title-x-funding/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined an interfaith letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee, urging them to block implementation of the proposed “gag rule” affecting the Title X family planning program.
- [Amicus Brief Opposing Forcing States to Fund Religious Education](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-opposing-forcing-states-fund-religious-education/) - Reconstructing Judaism joined an amicus curiae brief arguing against forcing states to fund religious education in violation of state constitutional provisions that are designed to protect the independence of religious groups.
- [Interfaith Open Letter: Stephen Miller Must Resign](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/interfaith-open-letter-stephen-miller-must-resign/) - As a diverse coalition of interfaith partners dedicated to moral and humane immigration policies, we demand the immediate resignation of White House Senior Policy Advisor Stephen Miller. We believe that all people deserve to be treated with dignity, regardless of their immigration status. Our varied faith traditions mandate us to welcome the stranger, love each other, and protect the most vulnerable among us.
- [Amicus Brief Opposing Overbroad Exemptions to ACA Contraception Mandate](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-opposing-overbroad-exemptions-aca-contraception-mandate/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined Americans United, ADL, and a variety of other religious and civil liberties organizations in an amicus brief opposing overbroad accomodation of employers refusing to participate in the Affordable Care Act’s requirements regarding contraception coverage. The U.S. Constitution’s Establishment Clause forbids the government to shift the costs and burdens of objectors’ religious beliefs onto third parties, and an accommodation without a demonstrated substantial burden on religion is an unconstitutional religious preference.
- [Letter from Jewish Rohingya Justice Network to Senate Foreign Relations Committee](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-jewish-rohingya-justice-network-senate-foreign-relations-committee/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined a letter urging the U.S. Senate to take up and pass the Burma Human Rights and Freedom Act of 2019 (S. 1186).
- [Interfaith Amicus Brief Opposing Indefinite Detention of Immigrant Families](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/interfaith-amicus-brief-opposing-indefinite-detention-immigrant-families/) - We join more than 40 faith and interfaith organizations to oppose new Trump administration regulations that would authorize indefinite detention of families with children during the course of their immigration proceedings.
- [Amicus Brief Opposing Religious Exemption to Antidiscrimination Law: Chelsea Nelson Photography](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-opposing-religious-exemption-antidiscrimination-law-chelsea-nelson/) - We have joined a brief opposing a religious exemption to an antidiscrimination law protecting LGBTQ people. Based on our belief in the importance of the separation of church and state, as well as our understanding of Jewish teachings that every human being is created in the divine image, we have long advocated for public policies of inclusion, antidiscrimination, and equality.
- [Jewish Community Statement Calling for Expanded Access to Nutrition Assistance Due to Coronavirus Crisis](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-community-statement-calling-expanded-access-nutrition-assistance-due-coronavirus/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined more than 650 Jewish organizations and clergy in a letter calling for increased and expanded nutrition assistance in the midst of the coronavirus crisis.
- [Letter on Asylum Seekers and "Remain in Mexico" Policy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-asylum-seekers-and-remain-mexico-policy/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Organization were among 153 signatories to a letter urging the Department of Homeland Security to end its “Migrant Protection Protocols” preventing asylum seekers from seeking refugee protection in the United States.
- [Letter Opposing Racial Profiling of Pregnant People Seeking to Enter U.S.](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-opposing-racial-profiling-pregnant-people-seeking-enter-us/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 156 signatories to join a letter from the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum, calling on Secretary Pompeo to end the US policy targeting pregnant people of color and making it harder for them to travel and visit their families.
- [Joint Statement of Solidarity by Jewish Communal Organizations](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-statement-solidarity-jewish-communal-organizations/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were about 180 Jewish communal organizations issuing a statement urging our political leaders and all our fellow Americans to treat this public health crisis as a moment for kindness and solidarity, and to make extra efforts to reach towards one another in support, not look to blame or scapegoat.
- [Faith Groups Urge Prisons to Protect Religious Needs During COVID-19 and Ramadan](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/faith-groups-urge-prisons-protect-religious-needs-during-covid-19-and-ramadan/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined a group of 20 faith groups urging federal and state prison systems to accommodate the religious needs of all prisoners and avoid using the coronavirus crisis to restrict their constitutional right to worship, particularly drawing attention to the needs of Muslim prisoners with Ramadan projected to begin on April 24. The full letter is attached.
- [Letter Regarding COVID-19 Relief Priorities](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-regarding-covid-19-relief-priorities/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 23 Jewish organizations writing to Speaker Pelosi and Minority Leader Schumer regarding priorities for COVID-19 relief.
- [Jewish Organizational Letter on Refugee and Asylum Priorities During COVID-19](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-organizational-letter-refugee-and-asylum-priorities-during-covid-19/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 192 Jewish organizations to urge Congress to insure that COVID-19 response includes refugees and asylum seekers.
- [Jewish And Pro-Israel Organizations Must Not Tolerate The Bigotry Of ZOA’s Morton Klein](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-and-pro-israel-organizations-must-not-tolerate-bigotry-zoas-morton-klein/) - As progressive pro-Israel organizations and members of the American Jewish community, we are appalled and outraged by the bigotry and hatred expressed and promoted by Morton Klein, president of the Zionist Organization of America (ZOA), at this painful and important moment of reckoning for our country. Klein’s latest outbursts and long track record of bigotry should make him unwelcome in any mainstream Jewish communal spaces and should lead to his expulsion from organizational umbrella groups such as the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations.
- [Letter in Support of HEAL for Immigrant Women and Families Act](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-support-heal-immigrant-women-and-families-act/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, already among over 100 organizations endorsing the HEAL for Immigrant Women & Families Act of 2020, signed a group letter urging that the Senate pass it.
- [Call to Protect Human Rights in in Myanmar (Burma) in Face of COVID-19](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/call-protect-human-rights-myanmar-burma-face-covid-19/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association signed a joint letter to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, demanding that Myanmar (Burma) make a priority of promoting human rights as COVID-19 spreads.
- [Amicus Brief Opposing Special Religious Exemptions to Generally Applicable Public Health Measures](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-opposing-special-religious-exemptions-generally-applicable-public-health/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined an amicus brief filed by religious and civil rights organizations opposing special religious exemptions to generally applicable public health measures.
- [500+ Jewish Organizations and Synagogues say: Black Lives Matter](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/black-lives-matter-statement/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among more than 500 Jewish organizations from across the racial and political spectrum; from different streams of Judaism; whose members trace their lineage from countries around the world; speaking with one voice to say that Black Lives Matter.
- [Amicus Brief Opposing Coerced Attendance at Religious Services](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-opposing-coerced-attendance-religious-services/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined an array of interfaith groups in an amicus brief opposing mandatory attendance at religious services as a condition of parole. Forced religious indoctrination is a violation of religious liberty.
- [Letter Opposing Confirmation of Anthony Tata](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-opposing-confirmation-anthony-tata/) - Reconstructing Judaism joined a coalition of civil rights groups to sign a letter opposing the Senate confirmation of Anthony Tata to a central Pentagon post due to his history of bigoted statements and actions.
- [Amicus Brief Defending California Public Health Measures' Application to Religious Organizations](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-defending-california-public-health-measures-application-religious/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined an amicus brief filed by religious and civil rights organizations supporting equal application of public health measures to religious organizations.
- [Jewish, Just Green Recovery Letter](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-just-green-recovery-letter/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are proud to have joined with other Jewish organizations from around the country to call on Congress to pass a just, green COVID stimulus. Our community is still hurting from the economic effects of COVID, and it is important that we take this opportunity to rebuild in a way that make society sustainable and work for everyone.
- [Interfaith Letter Against Utility Shutoffs](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/interfaith-letter-against-utility-shutoffs/) - Reconstructing Judaism joined a letter signed by over 500 faith leaders and organizations, urging a national moratorium on water, electricity, and broadband shutoffs in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [Amicus Brief Requiring Religious Social Services Providers to Comply with Nondiscrimination Law](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-requiring-religious-social-services-providers-comply-nondiscrimination-law/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined an amicus brief to the Supreme Court opposing the claim of some religious social services providers to be exempt from nondiscrimination law.
- [Amicus Brief on School Prayer Case (Kennedy Vs. Bremerton School District)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/amicus-brief-school-prayer-case-kennedy-vs-bremerton-school-district/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 18 religious and non-profit organizations signing onto an amicus brief to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in the case of Kennedy vs. Bremerton School District, in support of the school district’s efforts to protect students from religious coercion.
- [Letter for Utility Assistance](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-utility-assistance/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined 41 religious and non-profit organizations urging the Pennsylvania General Assembly to allocate relief money in order to cover the outstanding utility bills of vulnerable Pennsylvania residents and businesses facing shut-offs.
- [Letter to Senator Romney re: Supreme Court](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-senator-romney-re-supreme-court/) - Reconstructing Judaism joined a coalition of faith-based organization urging Senator Mitt Romney to reconsider his support for rushing through President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee with the Presidential election underway.
- [Access to Clean Water](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/access-clean-water/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 12 faith organizations endorsing a letter to Congress urging action to ensure universal access to clean water.
- [Letter Regarding November Updates to EEOC Religious Discrimination Compliance Manual](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-regarding-november-updates-eeoc-religious-discrimination-compliance-manual/) - Reconstructing Judaism was among 51 organizations urging the Equal Opportunity Commission to withdraw or suspend its proposed changes to its Religious Discrimination Compliance Manual, due to lack of stakeholder consultation and public hearings with testimony from relevant stakeholders on religious discrimination.
- [Letter Supporting the For The People Act (H.R. 1/S.1)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-supporting-people-act-hr-1s1/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Associations were among 79 national Jewish organizations urging members of Congress to pass the For The People Act (H.R.1/S.1) in order to enhance fairness, integrity and transparancy in our elections, create a democracy that values all voices, and build a more just society.
- [National Jewish Organizational Letter to Congress in Support of AAPI Communities](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/national-jewish-organizational-letter-congress-support-aapi-communities/) - Reconstructing Judaism joined a wide-ranging group of Jewish communal organizations in sending a letter to Congressional leadership urging support of and solidarity with Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
- [Responding to antisemitism by growing community, deepening commitments and building coalitions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/responding-antisemitism-growing-community-deepening-commitments-and-building-coalitions/) - In these polarized times, discourse over how best to confront antisemitism has often been visceral and sometimes taken on hyperbolic tones. At Reconstructing Judaism, we believe there are several steps toward a vigorous and constructive fight against rising antisemitism.
- [In solidarity with Ukraine](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/solidarity-ukraine/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association join countless nations and faith communities around the world in condemning the unprovoked and brutal Russian military invasion of Ukraine. Reconstructionist congregations are part of the World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ), which is also home to ten Ukrainian synagogues. We hold them, the entire Ukrainian Jewish community, and all the people of Ukraine in our hearts.
- [The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and Reconstructing Judaism affirm their strong commitment to reproductive justice and abortion rights in light of leaked SCOTUS draft.](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-rabbinical-association-and-reconstructing-judaism-affirm-their-strong/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and Reconstructing Judaism are deeply dismayed to learn of the leaked draft opinion of the Supreme Court indicating that Roe v. Wade, the landmark decision guaranteeing the right to an abortion, will be overturned imminently. Although this majority opinion has been leaked in draft form, we must face the reality that
- [2020 Annual Report](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/2020-annual-report-1/) - In unprecedented times, Reconstructing Judaism stepped up to provide Jewish connections to meaning and community that so many people found they needed.
- [Toddlers Turn On to Torah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/toddlers-turn-torah/) - How can you delight two- and three-year-olds with chanting of Torah in ancient melodies called trope?
- [Holding Ourselves Accountable](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/holding-ourselves-accountable/) - Reflections on teaching and learning virtuous behavior
- [Finding Grace in Parenthood](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/finding-grace-parenthood/) - Meditation on the spiritual lessons of parenthood.
- [Preparing for a Child](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/preparing-child/) - Reflections on the spirituality of impending parenthood.
- [Asking for Help](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/asking-help/) - How do you ask for help from a non-supernatural God? Rabbi Jacob Staub explores.
- [Waiting for the Messiah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/waiting-messiah/) - What is the place of the Messiah in Reconstructionist Judaism? Rabbi Jacob Staub reflects.
- [Twelve Things I Learned About Islam and Muslim Americans](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/twelve-things-i-learned-about-islam-and-muslim-americans/) - In this essay from the spring of 2015, Rabbi Nancy Fuchs-Kreimer shares her initial misconceptions about Islam and what she’s learned since. She is Director for Multifaith Studies and Initiatives at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College.
- [Jewish-Muslim Relations in America: How to Be an Ally](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-muslim-relations-america-how-be-ally/) - In this essay from January 2016, Rabbi Nancy Fuchs-Kreimer describes ways in which American Jewish communities can form alliances with Muslim-Americans.
- [Is God to Blame When Bad Things Happen?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/god-blame-when-bad-things-happen/) - When you stop believing that God is the cause of everything that happens to us, you don’t necessarily stop believing in the presence of the divine that infuses all things.
- [Where is God in This?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/where-god/) - Rabbi Jacob Staub brings Hasidic thought to bear on a contemporary spiritual question.
- [Your Customer May Not Be Your Consumer](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/your-customer-may-not-be-your-consumer/) - Profile of social entrepreneur Lynn Lancaster, co-founder of Sababa Surf Camp.
- [Strapping on the Tool Belt](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/strapping-tool-belt/) - Introductory post to Edgeblog
- [Statement on Summer 2015 Violence in Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-summer-2015-violence-israel/) - Statement addressing knife attack on Jerusalem LGBTQ parade and arson attack on Palestinian family.
- [Statement Responding to Same-Sex Marriage Ruling](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-responding-same-sex-marriage-ruling/) - The Reconstructionist movement celebrates the Supreme Court decision on Obergefell v. Hodges, ruling marriage equality for our country
- [Lights in the Darkness](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/lights-darkness/) - Writing from Israeli during a tense period, Adina Newberg reflects on Hanukkah’s imagery of light in the darkness.
- [A Light Gone Dim](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/light-gone-dim/) - Words of remembrance and appreciation on the loss of Israeli leader Yossi Sarid
- [Flight to Tel Aviv](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/flight-tel-aviv/) - Adina Newberg, an Israeli-American, describes the inner transition that comes with travelling between her two homelands.
- [Hurry Up and Slow Down](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/hurry-and-slow-down/) - Profile of social entrepreneur Aliza Kline’s approach to design thinking
- [Adapt (Not Just Adopt): A Conversation with Hebrew University Professor Jonathan Mirvis about Social and Commercial Entrepreneurship for Jewish Education](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/adapt-not-just-adopt-conversation-hebrew-university-professor-jonathan-mirvis-about-social-and/) - Do we adopt “entrepreneurial ideas” wholesale, or tinker with them to reflect on our projects of social value? Cyd Weissman interviews Hebrew University professor, Jonathan Mirvis to find out.
- [Hope and the New Zionism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/hope-and-new-zionism/) - Adina Newberg sees the ideals of Israel’s Declaration of Independence under increasing pressure, but also acted out by community leaders.
- [Work on the Right Side](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/work-right-side/) - Profile of Rabbi Sid Schwarz’s approach to creating entrepreneurial Jewish structures
- [Welcoming the Stranger, Living Our Values](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/welcoming-stranger-living-our-values/) - In an op-ed piece in Philadelphia’s Jewish Exponent, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., compellingly argues in favor of a robust and compassionate refugee program.
- [Marriage Equality and Religious Freedom](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/marriage-equality-and-religious-freedom/) - A reflection by Rabbi Deborah Waxman on marriage equality in the US and Israel
- [Fundraising: Not Rocket Science](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/fundraising-not-rocket-science/) - Learning fundraising on the fly is actually possible, according to Rabbi Elie Kaunfer, Executive Director of Mechon Hadar.
- [Statement on Historic Western Wall Compromise](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-historic-western-wall-compromise/) - he Reconstructionist movement is overjoyed that on Jan 31, 2016, the Israeli cabinet voted to dramatically expand the space for egalitarian prayer at the Kotel. This is a blessed and welcome decision.
- [Stay Strong for your Startup](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/stay-strong-your-startup/) - Rabbi Sara Luria says there are four things you can do to stay strong in the early days of a startup.
- [Lisa Colton, Master of the Entrepreneurial Sashay](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/lisa-colton-master-entrepreneurial-sashay/) - To thrive in changing times, Lisa Colton, founder and President of Darim Online, elegantly demonstrates the “two-step” of entrepreneurial leadership.
- [Statement Urging AIPAC to Rescind Donald Trump Invitation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-urging-aipac-rescind-donald-trump-invitation/) - A statement from Reconstructionist movement leaders regarding Trump’s invitation to speak at AIPAC.
- [Going the Way of Profit](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/going-way-profit/) - Launching a Jewish start-up? Todd Shotz says there are signficant advantages to going the way of a for-profit company.
- [Honoring the Dead: The Reconstructionist Hevrah Kaddishah of Philadelphia](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/honoring-dead-reconstructionist-hevrah-kaddishah-philadelphia/) - Faculty, staff and students at RRC led a program explaining the Reconstructionist perspective on a traditional pre-burial ritual.
- [Statement on the Orlando Attack: We Mourn, We Pray](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-orlando-attack-we-mourn-we-pray/) - In the wake of terror, a call to choose life and reject hate and intolerance.
- [Spirituality and Mental Health](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/spirituality-and-mental-health/) - Rabbi Jacob Staub, Ph.D., explains why spirituality can be such an important aspect of mental health.
- [No Success Without Learning To Fail](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/no-success-without-learning-fail/) - “Fail Forward” is the mantra of entrepreneurs. Take risks. You will fail, guaranteed. Learn from it. Once a little smarter, boldly launch again. Entrepreneurs believe, as Robert Kennedy did, “to achieve greatness, you have to fail greatly.”
- [Count the Omer with us](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/count-omer-us/) - This year, we’re counting the omer, while featuring the painting Omer 2014 by D’vorah Horn. Follow along on our Instagram and Facebook. We hope you’ll count the omer, and join us on this meditative journey!
- [Voters Must Act Against Demagoguery](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/voters-must-act-against-demagoguery/) - RRC President Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., was among the 18,000 people in the audience for Donald Trump’s March 21 speech to the AIPAC Policy Conference. Her response was published in The Philadelphia Inquirer under the title “Voters Must Act Against Demagoguery.”
- [Statement on Recent Acts of Violence](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-recent-acts-violence/) - The leadership of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the victims and families of the frightening acts of violence that have shaken several of our cities this weekend
- [Getting Back on the Balance Beam](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/getting-back-balance-beam/) - In a piece for eJewishphilanthropy.com, Rabbi Isaac Saposnik and Rabbi Jacob Lieberman liken the maintaining of an inclusive and safe camp environment to a balance beam routine: Sometimes things don’t go as planned, but you get back on the beam and move forward.
- [How Might We Learn Sustainability from "Hot Dudes Reading?"](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/how-might-we-learn-sustainability-hot-dudes-reading/) - Cyd Weissman interviews the founder of Hot Dudes Reading to glean lessons on marketing, sustainability, and collaboration.
- [Hevrutahpreneurship: Partnering for Learning and Leading](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/hevrutahpreneurship-partnering-learning-and-leading/) - Cyd Weissman interviews a couple who are are successfully leading a startup guided by the Jewish principle of hevrutah, Aramaic for friendship or companionship.
- [Mourning a Statesman, Peacemaker, and Legend](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/mourning-statesman-peacemaker-and-legend/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, Jewish Reconstructionist Communities and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association mourn the loss of Shimon Peres, z’l, one of the most important and influential founders and shapers of the State of Israel.
- [Coming Soon: New Reconstructionist Camp](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/coming-soon-new-reconstructionist-camp/) - Camp JRF, the Reconstructionist summer camp located in northeast Pennsylvania, has announced plans to open a film and arts-based specialty camp in Southern California. The Foundation for Jewish Camp, as part of its Specialty Camps Incubator, is awarding up to $1.4 million over four years to Camp JRF in order to open a Jewish specialty camp in the Los Angeles area.
- [Statement Condemning UNESCO's Temple Mount Resolution](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-condemning-unescos-temple-mount-resolution/) - UNESCO’s resolution denying the Jewish history of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem flies in the face of scholarship and history and is in no way helpful to the goal of peace.
- [Statement on October 9th Terrorist Attack](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-october-9th-terrorist-attack/) - A condemnation of the 10/19/16 terrorist attack in Jerusalem
- [Statement in Solidarity with the Reform Movement in Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-solidarity-reform-movement-israel/) - Our movement responds to recent vandalism of an Israeli Reform synagogue and death threats made against leaders of the Reform movement.
- [Statement on Fires in Haifa](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-fires-haifa/) - The Reconstructionist Movement expresses solidarity with Israel’s firefighters and emergency rescue services who are working tirelessly to combat the spread of multiple wildfires in the Haifa region.
- [Statement on White House Appointment of Stephen Bannon](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-white-house-appointment-stephen-bannon/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College and Jewish Reconstructionist Communities, along with the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, urge Trump to reconsider appointment of Stephen Bannon to a senior White House post.
- [Statement Following the Presidential Election](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-following-presidential-election/) - A statement following the Presidential election
- [Jewish Nasty Women: We must claim our history to repudiate Trump](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-nasty-women-we-must-claim-our-history-repudiate-trump/) - In this personal and political post in The Times of Israel, Rabbi Deborah Waxman discusses what’s at stake in this presidential election and beyond.
- [Profile of a Reconstructionist: The 20th Century through Isadore Seeman’s Eyes](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/profile-reconstructionist-20th-century-through-isadore-seemans-eyes/) - 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?
- [Spirit in Practice: A New Podcast from the Reconstructionist Movement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/spirit-practice-new-podcast-reconstructionist-movement/) - How will you sustain your spirit through your next four years, your lifetime? Do you wonder how you can show up for challenging times with compassion, courage, equanimity and joy? Spirit in Practice, a podcast miniseries, answers these and other questions through lively discussion among emerging leaders and religious teachers of many faiths who are exploring social activism and spiritual practices.
- [Statement on Proposed David Friedman Ambassadorship](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-proposed-david-friedman-ambassadorship/) - The Reconstructionist movement’s statement on President-Elect Trump’s plan to appoint David Friedman as the next U.S. Ambassador to Israel
- [Rabbi Deborah Waxman Speaks to Faith Leaders on Solidarity](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-deborah-waxman-speaks-faith-leaders-solidarity/) - Rabbi Deborah Waxman made this statement to faith leaders during a 11/28/2016 call on “Faith and Solidarity during a time of White Supremacy.”
- [Politics From The Pulpit: Speaking Publicly About Repairing The World Together](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/politics-pulpit-speaking-publicly-about-repairing-world-together/) - Reconstructionist Judaism takes seriously our obligation to act together to address injustice and suffering. To do so, Rabbi Elliot Tepperman argues, our congregations need to be places where we can safely engage in political and ethical agitation and disagreement, while avoiding mere irritation.
- [Statement on President Trump's Executive Order Concerning Refugees](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/refugee-statement/) - We are dismayed as President Trump prepares to take action to close the doors to thousands of refugees seeking shelter and relief from the humanitarian crisis in which they find themselves.
- [American Values, Religious Voices](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/american-values-religious-voices/) - Two RRC professors are part of an effort in which scholars of religion will, for the first 100 days of the new administration, be sending letters to the president, vice president, cabinet secretaries and members of the House and Senate.
- [New Materials for Your Welcoming Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/new-materials-your-welcoming-community/) - We have created a poster that congregations can use to send a clear message of inclusion and welcome.
- [Thinking About the Big Picture: What Congregations Need](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/thinking-about-big-picture-what-congregations-need/) - In an interview, Tresa Grauer shares the latest innovations in the way we support our Reconstructionist communities.
- [The First Reconstructionist Birthright Journey](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/first-reconstructionist-birthright-journey/) - A participant on the first Reconstructionist Birthright trip reflects on her journey.
- [Op-Ed on Trump Refugee Ban and Holocaust Remembrance Statement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/op-ed-trump-refugee-ban-and-holocaust-remembrance-statement/) - In an op-ed published in Ha’aretz, President Trump’s failure to acknowledge Jewish Holocaust victims while banning entry of refugees spurs criticism.
- [Statement on Terrorist Attack in Quebec](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-terrorist-attack-quebec/) - We at RRC/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities grieve for the victims of yesterday’s terrorist attack on worshipers at the Grande Mosquée de Québec.
- [Just For A Time Like This](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/just-time/) - On January 29, 2017, Reconstructionist rabbis and thinkers gathered for a day of learning and study on “Moving Forward in Changing Times.” The gathering offered a range of Jewish approaches to finding spiritual strength as an activist, how to have difficult conversations with those with opposing viewpoints and how to stay sane and grounded in what feels like an avalanche of political change.
- [Statement on Knesset Law that Retroactively Authorizes Settlement Outposts](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-knesset-law-retroactively-authorizes-settlement-outposts/) - The Reconstructionist movement opposes the Knesset's passage of the Regularization Bill.
- [Statement on Supreme Court Nominee Judge Neil Gorsuch](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-supreme-court-nominee-judge-neil-gorsuch/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities express grave concerns over the nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch to the US Supreme Court to fill the seat left empty by the death of Justice Antonin Scalia almost one year ago.
- [Light Through The Cracks](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/light-through-cracks/) - Rabbi Deborah Waxman reflects on finding spiritual equilibrium in a time of shifting sands.
- [Statement on the Israeli Knesset’s Passage of the “Entry Bill”](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-israeli-knessets-passage-entry-bill/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA) and RRC/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities (RRC/JRC) are strongly opposed to and deeply disappointed by the Israeli Knesset’s passage of the “Entry Bill.”
- [The Cornerstone of a Better World](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/cornerstone-better-world/) - A powerful Reconstructionist message responding to recent acts of anti-Semitism, as well as inspiring examples of the best of humanity.
- [Each of us can work to preserve dignity in the public square](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/each-us-can-work-preserve-dignity-public-square/) - [Our religious traditions] all believe in the importance of these values: speaking the truth, the sanctity of human life, and the obligation to treat every person with dignity.
- [Remembering How To Listen: A Reconstructionist Trip to Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/remembering-how-listen-reconstructionist-trip-israel/) - Jennifer Ferentz recently returned from the first-ever Reconstructionist Birthright trip to Israel. She reflects on her experiences.
- [Statement on Petach Tikvah Open Market Terrorist Attack](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-petach-tikvah-open-market-terrorist-attack/) - RRC/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn today's terrorist attack in an open market in Petach Tikvah that wounded six people.
- [When the Call Comes, Will Your Congregation Be Ready?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/when-call-comes-will-your-congregation-be-ready/) - Best practices in responding to congregational inquiries.
- [Resolution Affirms Full Inclusion of Transgender, Non-Binary Jews](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-support-transgender-non-binary-inclusion/) - All branches of the Reconstructionist movement have adapted resolutions affirming the full equality of transgender, non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals.
- [Jewish Values and Journalistic Ethics](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-values-and-journalistic-ethics/) - Rabbi David Teutsch, Ph.D., discusses the role of the free press in the Jewish community and American society, and what Jewish values can teach us about journalistic ethics.
- [Nothing Neutral About It: Inspired by Reconstructionist Judaism in Switzerland](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/nothing-neutral-about-it-inspired-reconstructionist-judaism-switzerland/) - 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.
- [Dorshei Emet Refugee Family Arrives](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/dorshei-emet-refugee-family-arrives/) - 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.
- [A New Name for Camp JRF](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/new-name-camp-jrf/) - A new name is announced for Camp JRF.
- [Call for Submissions: Embracing the Stranger](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/call-submissions-embracing-stranger/) - We welcome your submission for the High Holidays on the theme of “Embracing the Stranger — Within and Without.” Deadline is July 17, 2017!
- [Statement on Terrorist Attacks](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-terrorist-attacks/) - Statement on terrorist attacks on Egyptian Coptic Christians in May 2017
- [Finding Reconstructionist Judaism in the Lone Star State](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/finding-reconstructionist-judaism-lone-star-state/) - 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.
- [Reconstructionist Movement Featured in Report on Innovation in Faith Communities](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/featured-in-faithful-report/) - In a visionary report on the changing American religious landscape, RRC/JRC serves as a model for creative institutional transformation.
- [Statement on June 14 Shooting](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-june-14-shooting/) - We are deeply shocked by the shooting that targeted members of Congress and others. We fear that guns and bullets are replacing speech and debate, and we know that all those who believe in democracy and human dignity will not allow that to happen.
- [Public Letter on Withdrawal from Paris Climate Accord](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/public-letter-withdrawal-paris-climate-accord/) - Letter from American Jewish groups in response to the announced withdrawal from the Paris climate accord
- [Statement on Cancellation of Western Wall Agreement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-cancellation-western-wall-agreement/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities jointly condemn Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to cancel an agreement that would have allowed for mixed and egalitarian prayer services at the Western Wall in Jerusalem.
- [Reconstructionist Movement Welcomes Italian Congregation as Newest Affiliate](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-movement-welcomes-italian-congregation-newest-affiliate/) - The Sinagoga Ner Tamid del Sud in Serrastretta, Italy is the most recent congregation to formally affiliate with the Reconstructionist movement.
- [Statement on July Violence in Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-july-violence-israel/) - Statement condemning recent terror attack and addressing Temple Mount violence
- [How One Interfaith Family Found a Home at Synagogue](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/how-one-interfaith-family-found-home-synagogue/) - In an article in the Forward, Debbie Karl, a member of Reconstructionist Congregation Or Hadash, recounts the ways in which her interfaith family was welcomed into Jewish life.
- [Statement on Terror Attack at Entrance to Temple Mount](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-terror-attack-entrance-temple-mount/) - Condemnation of terror attack at the entrance to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.
- [Philosophy, Strategic Communications and Innovative Fundraising](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/philosophy-strategic-communications-and-innovative-fundraising/) - In an essay for eJewishphilanthropy, RRC’s Josh Peskin, vice-president for strategic advancement, outlines the values that animate fundraising and drive human connections.
- [Let's Journey Together](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/lets-journey-together/) - In an essay that appeared in Philadelphia’s Jewish Exponent, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., makes the case that Reconstructionist Judaism matters now more than ever.
- [Response to Charlottesville](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/charlottesville-response/) - We condemn in the strongest terms the white supremacist groups that gathered in Charlottesville, VA, over the weekend to promote racism, anti-Semitism, and other ideologies of bigotry, and we mourn with the families of the murdered protestor and of the law enforcement officials who were killed in the line of duty.
- [An Unforgettable Shabbaton With Long-Lasting Impact](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/pnw-shabbaton-2017/) - Report on Pacific Northwest Shabbaton in May 2017
- [Embracing Our Sorrows](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/embracing-our-sorrows/) - As the fast day of Tisha B’Av approaches, Rabbi Jacob Staub asks: why do we harp on sorrowful events that occurred so many centuries ago? The answer lies in the nature of grief.
- [Interview with Rabbi Toba Spitzer](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/interview-rabbi-toba-spitzer/) - In an insightful interview, Rabbi Toba Spitzer (RRC ‘97) reflects on what motivated her to attend RRC, what it was like to enter the rabbinate as a lesbian, and how much has changed in two decades. She also reflects on what individuals and communities can do to combat social inequality.
- [Explore the New Online Home of Reconstructionist Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/new-online-home/) - An overview of the new Jewishrecon.org website.
- [Innovation 101: Have 100 Coffees](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/innovation-101-have-100-coffees/) - Cyd Weissman reports back from the leading edge of Jewish innovation.
- [Petition Against Fascism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/petition-against-fascism/) - A petition to the elected leadership of our country to take steps to stop the spread of fascism.
- [Keeping the Faith: Resilience in the Jewish Tradition](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/keeping-faith-resilience-jewish-tradition/) - In an essay for eJewishPhilanthropy, Rabbi Deborah Waxman delves into Jewish history and tradition around resilience — the focus of our new podcast, Hashivenu.
- [How to Pray](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/how-pray/) - How do you pray, anyway? Rabbi Jacob Staub explores this seemingly simple question.
- [Picture Books Help Families Live Jewish Values](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/picture-books-help-families-live-jewish-values/) - 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.
- [18 Jewish Holidays: A Journey to Unexpected Places](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/abigail-pogrebin-interview/) - 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.”
- [Statement on Decision to End Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals program](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-statement-daca/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities are strongly opposed to President Trump’s recently announced decision to end the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals or DACA and put the lives of over 800,000 young people in America at risk.
- [How to Avoid Startup Crash and Burn](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/how-avoid-startup-crash-and-burn/) - Cyd Weissman interviews Avi Rubel, a successful social entrepreneur, about taking risks when launching a new venture.
- [Online Trolling and Yom Kippur](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/online-trolling-and-yom-kippur/) - In a piece for the Forward, Reconstructionist rabbi Michael Strassfeld argues that posting inflammatory comments on social media isn’t just tacky. It’s a sin.
- [Statement on the Har Adar Terrorist Attack](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-har-adar-terrorist-attack/) - RRC / Jewish Reconstructionist Communities and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn the terrorist attack that took place in the West Bank settlement of Har Adar.
- [Transformational Leader David Roberts Looks Forward and Back](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/david-roberts-leadership/) - As David Roberts concludes his 11-year tenure as board chair for the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College and Jewish Reconstructionist Communities, he remains as committed as ever to championing a groundbreaking and inclusive vision of Judaism.
- [The Process of Choosing a Jewish Life: One Reconstructionist Leader’s Story](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/choosing-jewish-life-seth-rosen/) - Seth Rosen nearly opted out of Jewish life entirely. Instead, he became president of his congregation. Now, the recently retired lawyer has risen to be the new chair of the board of governors of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College & Jewish Reconstructionist Communities.
- [Ultra-Busy Leader Stops to Gain Perspective](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/ultra-busy-leader-stops-gain-perspective/) - 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.
- [Choosing to Examine the ‘Chosen People’ Idea](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/chosen-people-film/) - 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.
- [Statement on Fire at URJ Camp Newman](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-fire-urj-camp-newman/) - Last week, amidst the tragic loss of life and widespread devastation from the ongoing wildfires in Northern California, we learned the heartbreaking news that much of URJ Camp Newman was destroyed by the fires. Together with the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, all of us at Camp Havaya and Havaya Arts send our love and support as the community now works to rebuild.
- [Reconstructing Judaism Funds an Innovative, Spiritual Community Based on Entrepreneurial Model](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/innovation-grant-barnathan/) - Reconstructing Judaism awarded its Auerbach Innovation Launch Grant to Rabbi Shelly Barnathan, ’15. The yearlong $20,000 grant will help to fund Or Zarua, a “co-constructed” spiritual community in suburban Philadelphia that aims to meet the needs of baby-boomers and empty-nesters.
- [A Vital Foreign Policy Tool Under Threat](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/vital-foreign-policy-tool-under-threat/) - Rabbi David Teutsch urges support for foreign aid in the upcoming federal budget.
- [Statement on Las Vegas Shooting](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-las-vegas-shooting/) - Response to the violent shooting in Las Vegas that so far has ended 58 human lives and injured hundreds more.
- [Leadership Message - December 2017](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/leadership-message-december-2017/) - Board chair Seth Rosen lays out his plans for the development of the Reconstructionist movement.
- [New Camp's Goal: 'Making Intentional Artists and Good Human Beings'](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/havaya-arts-preview/) - 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.
- [When the Organized World Meets the Rogue World](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/when-organized-world-meets-rogue-world/) - Synagogues engage one-third of the United States’ Jewish population. What role might they take to serve the spiritual, communal and religious needs of the other two-thirds (the majority) who don’t choose synagogue membership as an expression of their Judaism? Cyd Weissberg explores.
- [Statement on Use of Force Against Reform Leaders at the Kotel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-use-force-against-reform-leaders-kotel/) - We stand in solidarity with the leaders of the Reform movement who were confronted with force by police and Western Wall security personnel as they attempted to carry Torah scrolls to the site.
- [Fighting Fires All Part of a Life of Service](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/fighting-fires-life-of-service/) - Rabbi Howard Cohen, who serves both as a rabbi and a volunteer firefighter, describes how his overlapping spheres provide richness and balance.
- [Striving Towards Racial Justice in our Jewish Communities](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/striving-towards-racial-justice-our-jewish-communities/) - Reflections on the recent Jewish Social Justice roundtable meeting on racial justice and equity.
- [B’tselem Elohim: Jewish Ethics, Sexual Harassment and the Workplace of the Future](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-ethics-metoo/) - Reconstructionist leaders call for institutional reform and lasting change in the wake of the #metoo campaign.
- [Reconstructionist Statement on Trump Announcement Recognizing Jerusalem as Capital](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-jerusalem-announcement/) - Statement on President Trump’s decision to formally recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
- [Movement Update from Rabbi Deborah Waxman](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/movement-update-president-january-2018/) - Reflections on the state of Reconstructionist Judaism as 2018 begins.
- [Joint Statement on Recent Abbas Speech](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-statement-recent-abbas-speech/) - We strongly condemn the recent public remarks made by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, which contribute to undermining prospects for a viable peace process.
- [Wine, Not Whine, Your Way to Millennial Engagement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/wine-not-whine-your-way-millennial-engagement/) - Ross Berkowitz discusses designing Jewish engagement experiences for Millennials.
- [Statement on Israeli Government Blacklist](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-israeli-government-blacklist/) - Statement expressing disappointment in Israeli government’s viewpoint-based blacklist on entry into Israel
- [Building Jewish Communities: Opportunity and Obligation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/building-jewish-communities-opportunity-and-obligation/) - 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.
- [About Our New Name](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/about-our-new-name/) - We’re changing our name to Reconstructing Judaism. Rabbi Deborah Waxman, president of Reconstructing Judaism, explains why.
- [Who We Are and What We Do](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/who-we-are-and-what-we-do/) - Reconstructing Judaism: Who we are and what we do.
- [Women Rabbis Respond to #MeToo](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/women-rabbis-respond-metoo/) - RRC faculty address sexual harassment in Jewish organizations, including harassment of women rabbis.
- [Let My People Stay: Jews Demand a Dream Act Now](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/let-my-people-stay/) - 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.
- [Keeping Judaism Alive Behind Prison Walls](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/keeping-judaism-alive-behind-prison-walls/) - Serving Jewish prisoners in state prison, rabbinic students find new perspectives on freedom and responsibility.
- [Reconstructing Judaism Appeals to Temple Emek Shalom in Oregon, Now a Fellow Constituent](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/temple-emek-shalom/) - Reconstructing Judaism welcomes Temple Emek Shalom in Ashland, Oregon.
- [Response to Parkland, Florida Shooting](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/response-parkland-florida-shooting/) - Statement in response to the Parkland, Florida shooting. While raising our voices in prayer and condolences for the victims of violence, we also raise our voices to call for the enactment and enforcement of reasonable gun laws throughout this country that would prevent such tragedies.
- [Jewish Support for Dreamers: A Self-Evident Truth](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-support-dreamers-self-evident-truth/) - We call on our elected officials to allow Dreamers to remain in the United States and provide a path to citizenship.
- [Does The Torah Require Us To Publicize Names Of Sexual Abusers?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/does-torah-require-us-publicize-names-sexual-abusers/) - What does Judaism teach us about how to respond to accusations of harassment or assault?
- [Reconstructionist Movement Updates](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-movement-updates/) - Though we count time Jewishly, by any consideration the secular year 2018 is an exciting year for the Reconstructionist movement.
- [Living the Mission: Values-Based Decision-Making and Reconstructing Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/exploring-liturgy-temple-emmanuel/) - The story of Temple Emmanuel’s ongoing exploration of Reconstructionist liturgy, and the rich conversations the process has opened up.
- [Entrepreneurial True Grit](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/entrepreneurial-true-grit/) - Is grit the key to success for social entrepreneurs? Ariana Katz suggests that the answer lies elsewhere.
- [Why Belong?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/why-belong/) - 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.
- [Responding to Recent Events Involving Israel’s African Asylum Seekers](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/responding-recent-events-involving-israels-african-asylum-seekers/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA) urge Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government to reconsider its decision to abandon the agreement it initially announced it had struck with the United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, on April 2, 2018.
- [Response to Recent Violence on Gaza Border](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/response-recent-violence-gaza-border/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA) are deeply saddened and concerned following the deaths of approximately 18 Palestinians, and the wounding of many others, by Israeli army fire during last Friday’s Palestinian-led marches near the border fence between Gaza and Israel.
- [How Judaism Elevates Modern Discourse: The Topic at the Table for Chesapeake Day of Learning](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/chesapeake-day-of-learning-difficult-conversations/) - The 2018 Chesapeake Day of Learning addressed difficult conversations in progressive Jewish communities.
- [Reconstructing Judaism: Evolution in Action](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-evolution-action/) - Judaism as an “evolving civilization” has been a Reconstructionist catchphrase for decades. But as board chair Seth Rosen writes, a deeper understanding of evolutionary biology gives fresh insight on the path ahead.
- [Statement on Nashville and Toronto](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-nashville-and-toronto/) - For those of us in North America, what words are adequate to this week’s domestic horrors happening in close succession and dominating headlines: the murder by gun of four people in Nashville and the murder with a van of ten and injury of countless others in Toronto? What actions can we take?
- [Israel Mission Trip, March 2018: A Travelogue](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/israel-mission-trip-march-2018-travelogue/) - 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.
- [Rabbis as Entrepreneurs? It's Not About the Money](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbis-entrepreneurs-its-not-about-money/) - We train rabbis to be social entrepreneurs: applying a business-like discipline to creating solutions to social justice, cultural and environmental issues.
- [The Aviv Revolving Loan Fund Helps Synagogues and Havurot Spring Into Growth](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/aviv-revolving-loan-fund-helps-synagogues-and-havurot-spring-growth/) - The Aviv Revolving Loan Fund is one way that Reconstructing Judaism is marshaling its resources to strengthen affiliated communities and foster innovation.
- [Statement on Recent Events in Israel and Gaza](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-recent-events-israel-and-gaza/) - A statement from Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association
- [A Message of Condolence](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/message-condolence/) - We express condolences on the tragic death of Rabbi Aaron Panken, Ph.D., 12th president of HUC-JIR.
- [Reconstructionist Communities Make Disability Inclusion a Top Priority](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-communities-make-disability-inclusion-top-priority/) - 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.
- [Joint Statement on Immigration](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-statement-immigration/) - The leadership of Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn with horror the travesty that has become our immigration system under the administration of U.S. President Donald J. Trump.
- [Parenting And Cognitive Disabilities: Looking To My Son’s Future](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/parenting-and-cognitive-disabilities-looking-my-sons-future/) - In an article for the New York Jewish Week, Gabrielle Kaplan-Meyer describes the challenges families face in planning for the future of children with cognitive disabilities.
- [Jewish Letter on Family Separation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-letter-on-family-separation/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association stand with other national Jewish organizations to protest the Trump administration’s immigration policies that separate children from their parents.
- [The Power of Gathering](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/power-gathering/) - Board president Seth Rosen reflects on the power of being together in the same place.
- [Statement on Israel's Passage of Nation State Law](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-israels-passage-nation-state-law/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association strongly oppose the Nation State Law that the Knesset has now established as one of Israel’s Basic Laws, which carry constitutional weight.
- [The Poor People’s Campaign, a National Call for Moral Revival](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/poor-peoples-campaign-national-call-moral-revival/) - 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.
- [Drawing Comfort from Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/drawing-comfort-community/) - 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.
- [Evolve: Sowing the Seeds of Constructive Evolution](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/evolve/) - Reconstructing Judaism has just rolled out Evolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations with the intention of hosting difficult, groundbreaking conversations that are nevertheless mutually respectful and supportive. We invite you to visit Evolve and to join the conversations!
- [Notes from the Border](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/notes-border/) - 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.
- [Atlanta Congregation to Share Its Passion for Music at Convention](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/atlanta-congregation-share-its-passion-music-convention/) - 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.
- [Gathering Together](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/gathering-together/) - 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.
- [Rosh Hashanah Message: In Order to Move Forward, We Must Look Back](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/a-message-for-rosh-hashanah/) - In this Rosh Hashanah video message, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, president of Reconstructing Judaism, explores the ways in which remembering the past is crucial to moving forward into a sweet New Year.
- [Statement on October 7th Terrorist Attack](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-october-7th-terrorist-attack/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn the terrorist attack that killed two Israeli civilians. Terrorism is never justified and will not help end the Occupation of the West Bank, nor will it pave the way to a lasting, fair peace agreement. May those who work for peace, justice, and reconciliation throughout the region be strengthened in their work and their ideals.
- [And She Persisted: One Trailblazing Rabbi Rescues the Story of Another From History’s Ashes](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/and-she-persisted-one-trailblazing-rabbi-rescues-story-another-historys-ashes/) - 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.
- [Response to Murder of Ari Fuld](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/response-murder-ari-fuld/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn the stabbing attack carried out by a Palestinian youth that killed Ari Fuld, an American-Israeli father of four, at the Etzion junction in the West Bank.
- [Jewish Ethics, #MeToo, and Crowd-Sourced Responsa](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-ethics-metoo-and-crowd-sourced-responsa/) - In 5778, the hashtags #TimesUp #MeToo #GamAni sparked a broad communal conversation about abuses of power on the part of individuals and institutions, within and beyond the Jewish community. The year brought revelations of misconduct among celebrities and government officials, and in Jewish schools, organizations, and synagogues. Now, powerful people who abuse their power are being held accountable, and this is a development that is welcome and long overdue. That doesn’t mean it is easy.
- [Diving Into the Tank: Spotlighting Social Entrepreneurship Models at Convention](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/diving-into-the-tank/) - What ideas are Jewish communities exploring to reach unengaged and under-engaged populations in new ways and spaces? What conversations are taking place about how to fund such ideas? How can communities gain the confidence to try, and possibly fail, in order to implement the next idea? These questions will be front-and-center during the closing program of “Rooted and Relevant: Reconstructing Judaism in 2018,” the Reconstructionist movement’s first convention in nearly a decade.
- [In Praise of Movements](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/in-praise-of-movements/) - 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.
- [Statement Opposing Trump Plan to Curtail Rights of Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming People](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-rights-transgender/) - We lift our collective voices in support of transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming people — our loved ones, our community leaders, and people across the globe.
- [The Importance of Holy Conversation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/importance-holy-conversation/) - 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.
- [Statement on the Pittsburgh Synagogue Massacre](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-pittsburgh-synagogue-massacre/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association mourn the devastating losses that a white nationalist domestic terrorist inflicted upon the Jewish community this past Shabbat morning at Tree of Life - Or L’Simcha Congregation in Pittsburgh. Included among the dead and wounded are members of our affiliate, Congregation Dor Hadash, which meets there.
- [Responding to Today's Tragedy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/responding-todays-tragedy/) - All of us at Reconstructing Judaism are still processing the shock, grief and heartbreak of the shooting that took place in Pittsburgh at Tree of Life - Or L’Simcha Congregation, which is also the home of our Reconstructionist affiliate, Congregation Dor Hadash.
- [Initial Statement on the Pittsburgh Shootings](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/initial-statement-pittsburgh-shootings/) - We are shocked and horrified by the shootings at the Tree of Life Synagogue in the Squirrel Hill section of Pittsburgh. Our hearts, support and condolences go out to the community members of the Tree Of Life - Or L’Simcha Congregation, to the community members of our affiliated congregation, Congregation Dor Hadash, who were meeting at the Tree of Life Synagogue, and to the people of Pittsburgh.
- [Statement on Recent Events in Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/israel-statement-dec-2018/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn and are saddened by the recent terror attacks by Palestinian extremists against Israeli soldiers, police and civilians in the West Bank and Jerusalem.
- [Rooted and Relevant: Dispatches from Convention 2018](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rooted-and-relevant-dispatches-convention-2018/) - Several dispatches from the November 2018 Reconstructing Judaism conference: prayer, learning, and action.
- [‘We Are All Dor Hadash’](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/we-are-all-dor-hadash/) - 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.
- [Coverage and Reaction to the October 2018 Pittsburgh Attack](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/coverage-and-reaction-october-2018-pittsburgh-attack/) - A selection of articles, essays and statements on the tragic events in Pittsburgh.
- [New U.S. Rep Talks Reconstructionism, Convention, Eastern Religions and MLK](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/new-us-rep-talks-reconstructionism-convention-eastern-religions-and-mlk/) - U.S. Representative Andy Levin is a longtime active member of Reconstructionist congregation T’chiyah in Oak Park, Michigan. This interview explores his deepest commitments, and how he lives them out.
- [Champagne and Aspirin For Strengthening Jewish Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/champagne-and-aspirin-strengthening-jewish-community/) - Reflections on lessons learned in a network of network weavers
- [In Tragedy’s Wake, Dor Hadash Finds Strength in Jewish Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/dor-hadash-finds-strength/) - Two months after the attack at Pittsburgh congregation Dor Hadash, we revisit the community.
- [Joint Israel Commission Meets at Convention](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/joint-israel-commission-meets-convention/) - The Joint Israel Commission gathered in person at the Reconstructing Judaism convention. Rabbi Maurice Harris reports on their activities and next steps.
- [Facing Death, Rabbinical Student Teaches Others About Living Life](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/facing-death-rabbinical-student-teaches-others-about-living-life/) - Emet Tauber, a rabbinical student facing terminal illness, devoted his last days to supporting causes and institutions that he values — including affordable and accessible rabbinic education.
- [Jewish Ethics Conference Gathers Academics, Rabbis and Communal Leaders to Explore Contemporary Questions in a Jewish Framework](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-ethics-conference-preview/) - What are the key ethical questions facing Jews and Jewish communities today? How can scholars, rabbis and communal leaders discuss ethics in a way that impacts how people behave in the real world? “Jewish Values & the Ethical Now: A Conference in Celebration of Rabbi David A. Teutsch, Ph.D” will explore these questions on March 10-11, 2019 in Philadelphia.
- [Evolving](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/evolving/) - 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.
- [Reconstructing Pluralism through Conversation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-pluralism-through-conversation/) - Pluralism is dead. Long live pluralism.
- [What's Next?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/whats-next/) - Seth Rosen reflects on the successes of our 2018 convention and shares plans to build on it to strengthen our communities and movement.
- [Kahanists are a Danger to Israelis and Israeli Democracy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/kahanists-are-danger-israelis-and-israeli-democracy/) - We call on our colleagues in the American Jewish community and Jewish organizations to stand for democracy and equality and join us in affirming that Kahanists have no place in the Knesset.
- [Reconstructionist Educators of North America: An Overview](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-educators-north-america-overview/) - Learn more about Reconstructionist Educators of North America, a vital resource for professional development, mentorship and connection for Jewish educators in Reconstructionist communities.
- [Havaya: Camp to Campus](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/havaya-camp-campus/) - A Camp Havaya alum reflects on the ways that her camp experience shaped her for the better.
- [What Does a Thriving Synagogue Look Like?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/what-does-thriving-synagogue-look/) - 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.
- [Statement on New Zealand Mosque Attacks](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-new-zealand-mosque-attacks/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are horrified by and condemn the terrorist attacks carried out this morning against Muslims in New Zealand. Our hearts are broken and we are shaken. We stand in solidarity with the Muslim communities of the Al Noor and Linwood Mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, and all who are in shock, grief, and fear everywhere as a result of this devastating news.
- [Rabbi Sandra Lawson, ’18, Profiled by Student News Magazine](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-sandra-lawson-18-profiled-student-news-magazine/) - Rabbi Sandra Lawson, ’18, who serves as associate chaplain for Jewish life and Jewish educator at Elon University in North Carolina, was recently featured in an in-depth video segment produced by Elon News Network, the university’s student-run organization.
- [Invitation to Support Israelis Opposing Kahanists in Knesset](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/petition-supporting-israelis-opposing-kahanists-knesset/) - Reconstructing Judaism invites communities to show solidarity with thousands of Israelis who are taking action to try to prevent Kahanists from being allowed to enter the Knesset.
- [Statement on Shooting at Chabad of Poway](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-shooting-chabad-poway/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association send our deepest condolences and wishes of refu’ah shlaymah — full and complete healing — to all who were affected by the shooting at Chabad of Poway, California.
- [Rabbi Elliott Tepperman: Bringing a Community-Organizing Model to the Pulpit](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-elliott-tepperman-bringing-community-organizing-model-pulpit/) - Rabbi Elliott Tepperman’s vision of a synagogue: a community that sustains itself through prayer and Torah, while also “trying to be a powerful force for making change in the world.”
- [Statement on Easter Sunday Bombings in Sri Lanka](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-easter-sunday-bombings-sri-lanka/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are shocked by and condemn the terrorist attacks carried out on Easter Sunday at multiple churches and other locations in Sri Lanka. With broken hearts, we stand in solidarity with the Christian communities of Sri Lanka, and with people in grief and shock around the world.
- [Jewish Values & The Ethical Now: Following in Rabbi David Teutsch’s Path](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/ethics-conference-2019/) - The Center for Jewish Ethics’ conference in March 2019 highlighted voices from across the Jewish world, yet the proceedings embodied the Reconstructionist approach to conversation. Presenters and attendees examined issues from many sides, exchanging perspectives with deep respect for one another and Jewish tradition.
- [Divinely Inspired: Through Meditation, Rabbi Teaches Human Vulnerability as a Source of Strength](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/divinely-inspired-through-meditation-rabbi-teaches-human-vulnerability-source-strength/) - Profile of Rabbi Sheila Peltz Weinberg: her journey, and her contributions to the Reconstructionist movement and to Jewish spiritual life writ large.
- [Building Our Community of Communities](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/building-our-community-communities/) - In a brief video, Seth Rosen talks about the role Reconstructing Judaism plays in supporting and connecting Reconstructionist communities, and amplifying our collective Reconstructionist voice. Seth Rosen is chair of the board of governors of Reconstructing Judaism.
- [The First-Ever Reconstructionist Beit Din in Europe](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/first-ever-reconstructionist-beit-din-europe/) - Rabbi Maurice Harris shares the moving story of welcoming new Jews through conversion —on a Reconstructionist beit din in the Netherlands.
- [Why We Have to Talk About It](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/why-we-have-to-talk-about-it/) - Can Reconstructionist communities avoid discussing controversial political issues? Seth Rosen argues that despite the challenges, difficult conversations are the only path forward.
- [From Despair to Action](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/from-despair-to-action/) - Rabbi Deborah Waxman reflects on the ways in which Reconstructing Judaism is strengthening the ways in which we support and connect Jewish communities traumatized by the recent surge in antisemitic attacks.
- [Teaching Resilience to Children](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/teaching-resilience-children/) - As more and more places of worship become vulnerable to hate crimes and gun violence and we increase security measures, young people are particularly traumatized. One congregation has created a mental health and resilience curriculum for its students.
- [Reconstructionist Affiliates, Rabbis Push for More Just Immigration System](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-communities-immigration-justice/) - Rooted in the Jewish textual tradition and lived experience, Reconstructionist communities are aiding immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers through direct service, education and advocacy.
- [New Progressive Israel Network Launched By Ten Leading Jewish Organizations](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/new-progressive-israel-network-launched/) - Today, ten leading organizations representing Americans who are committed to pursuing democracy, equality and peace in Israel announced the launch of the Progressive Israel Network. The new coalition will provide a strong, unified voice in support of its members’ common goals: democracy and equal rights, religious freedom and pluralism, and a two-state solution that would secure a peaceful future for Israel and end the 52-year-long occupation.
- [From Kant to Jewish Sexual Perspectives, Essay Contest Reflects Depth of Thought in Jewish Ethics ](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/ethics-essay-prize-winners-2019/) - In its annual content, the Center for Jewish Ethics has recognized two essays that together demonstrate the vitality and breadth of the field of Jewish ethics: one on sexual ethics, the other on Kant’s influence on modern Jewish ethical thought.
- [Pride Month, Israel, and Us](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/pride-month-israel-and-us/) - A personal message from Rabbi Deborah Waxman
- [Statement on Violence Against Jewish Protesters at ICE Detention Center](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-violence-against-jewish-protesters-ice-detention-center/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn the violence committed against peaceful protestors at the entrance to an ICE detention center in Rhode Island.
- [Statement on Israeli Government Decision to Bar Entry to Reps. Omar and Tlaib](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-israeli-government-decision-bar-entry-reps-omar-and-tlaib/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association strongly oppose the decision of the Government of Israel to deny entry into Israel to U.S. Congressional Representatives Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib.
- [Statement on El Paso and Dayton Attacks](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-el-paso-and-dayton-attacks/) - While raising our voices in prayer and condolences for the victims of this latest mass-shooting, we also raise our voices to call for the enactment and enforcement of reasonable gun laws throughout this country that would help prevent such tragedies.
- [New Book Sparks Conversation Between Torah, Kaplan and Real Life](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/new-book-sparks-conversation-between-torah-kaplan-and-real-life/) - A Year With Mordecai Kaplan: Wisdom on the Weekly Torah Portion by Rabbi Steven Carr Reuben, Ph.D. is a deeply rooted and boldly relevant Torah commentary. For each week’s reading, Rabbi Reuben weaves together traditional commentary, a nugget of Mordecai Kaplan’s thought, and a vivid personal insight that illuminates the connection between the two. This powerful and accessible work invites us to engage with Torah, Kaplan and contemporary human experience in ways that are nourishing, optimistic and inspiring.
- [Need to Take a Breath at Work?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/need-take-breath-work/) - More and faster describes my usual work habit. I’ve operated this way for decades. But daily, I’m learning to take a breath so my work is not solely about tasks; it is infused with soul.
- [G-dliness, Faith in Humanity and Surviving 9/11](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/godliness-faith-in-humanity-and-surviving-911/) - Jonathan Markowitz recounts his narrow escape from the World Trade Center on 9/11, and reflects on God, Judaism and humanity in light of his experience.
- [With Training and Funding From RRC, Reconstructionist Rabbis and Rabbinical Students Engage Those Seeking Connection and Meaning](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/training-funding-for-seekers-connection-meaning/) - Reconstructing Judaism’s support of entrepreneurship gives rabbinical students and recent graduates the funding, supervision and mentorship to turn ideas into reality. “For me, the big story is that Jews remain seekers of meaning and community. What our Auerbach grants do is create new portals for Jewish community and meaning,” said Cyd Weissman, Reconstructing Judaism’s vice president for Innovation and Impact.
- [Jewish Rohingya Justice Network Letter to Under Secretary Mandelker](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-rohingya-justice-network-letter-under-secretary-mandelker/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have joined with 18 organizations, representing the Jewish Rohingya Justice Network, in calling for justice and accountability for the Rohingya people and all ethnic minorities in Burma.
- [Tashlikh Reconstructed](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/tashlikh-reconstructed/) - “We accept the responsibility for changing and for changing this world. That is what people need to stay in hope. And without hope, there is no energy for no creative new solutions,” says Rabbi Amy Bernstein in this moving video, Tashlikh Reconstructed.
- [A High Holiday Message](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/high-holiday-message-5780/) - The Talmud tells us that God created repentance (teshuvah) before creating the physical world. As Billy Joel once sang, “we’re only human, we’re supposed to make mistakes.” It’s how we respond to mistakes, how we grow, that matters. This video explores the twin themes of teshuvah and gratitude (hakarat hatov.) Our tradition offers us practices that cultivate self-reflection and humility, relationship and repair. We hope these words offer some comfort and guidance as you undergo your own process of teshuvah and, in meaningful relationships with others, make Godliness present in the world.
- [Statement Opposing Netanyahu’s Annexation Pledge](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-opposing-netanyahus-annexation-pledge/) - Both Israelis and Palestinians want and deserve to live in peace, with justice and dignity. Israelis deserve to live in a healthy and vibrant democracy. Palestinians deserve to live free from occupation.
- [Statement on Yom Kippur Attack on Synagogue in Germany](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-yom-kippur-attack-synagogue-germany/) - Reconstructing Judaism is horrified and saddened by the antisemitic terrorist attack carried out upon a synagogue in Halle, Germany by a German white nationalist on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar.
- [Music of the Movement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/music-movement/) - Reconstructionist Jews are creating beautiful music. In this video, watch and listen to some of the musical highlights from our 2018 Convention and learn about Kolot Zimrah, a new online community where Reconstructionist musicians share their latest creations with the world.
- [Dor Hadash exemplifies virtues of Reconstructionist Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/dor-hadash-exemplifies-virtues-reconstructionist-judaism/) - As leaders of the Reconstructionist movement, we hold Dor Hadash up as a powerful example of an active and engaged lay-led Jewish community. We urge communal leaders and opinion makers to recognize Dor Hadash itself — in all dealings around the attack, as an exemplar of vibrant Jewish life.
- [As Pittsburgh Attack Anniversary Nears, 60 Minutes Explores Aftermath and Response](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/pittsburgh-60-minutes/) - This 13-minute piece from 60 Minutes is among the most moving and informative pieces of journalism on the horrific Pittsburgh shooting. It captures the scope of the human tragedy, as well as the inspirational manner in which the greater Pittsburgh community and people of other faiths have rallied behind the city’s Jewish community. It also explores the nuanced debate over how best to respond to the attack, and heavily features members of the Reconstructionist affiliate, Congregation Dor Hadash.
- [Divine Justice: A Jewish Perspective](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/divine-justice-jewish-perspective/) - Video of Chautauqua Institution talk on Jewish views of Divine Justice (July 19, 2019)
- [Letter to Israeli Political Leadership Opposing Annexation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/letter-opposing-annexation/) - As heads of American Jewish organizations who care deeply about the State of Israel and are committed to safeguarding its future as a democratic homeland for the Jewish people, we implore you to consider the costs of any unilateral annexations in the West Bank, and ask that you refuse to support annexation as a policy guideline for any government that your party may join.
- [Finding a Home Within a Home in Central Oregon: Shalom Bayit Opens Doors to Reconstructing Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/shalom-bayit-opens-doors/) - Shalom Bayit of Bend Oregon is a new affiliate of Reconstructing Judaism. Their story is one of an eclectic, big-tent congregation with a spiritual and informal approach. Members have built a meaningful Jewish community in a city with virtually no history of Jewish life and where nearly everyone is a transplant.
- [Congregation Dor Hadash was a target for its immigrant advocacy — and the shooting did not stop that work](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/congregation-dor-hadash-was-target-its-immigrant-advocacy-and-shooting-did-not-stop-work/) - Reconstructionist Congregation Dor Hadash has responded to the antisemitic, anti-immigrant attack last year by doubling down on its commitment to help refugees, immigrants and asylum seekers. “We who are still alive have an obligation to honor the memory of those who are no longer with us by doing acts of loving kindness, doing socially conscious things to make the world a better place. That’s how Dor Hadash operates,” said Dan Leger, the Dor Hadash member injured in the shooting. “We pray with our feet, we pray with our votes,” he continued. “We might open a prayer book once in a while — some of us might do it more often than others — but we are an acutely socially responsible group of people who feels that the way we honor being Jewish and being connected with the Divine is by actively trying to make the world a safer, better, more wholesome place to live in.”
- [One Year After Pittsburgh, Jews and Allies Pledge Solidarity](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/one-year-after-pittsburgh-jews-and-allies-pledge-solidarity/) - Reconstructing Judaism was among fifteen organizations co-sponsoring the following statement, which was organized by Bend the Arc.
- [US Jewish Movements: President Trump Must Fire Stephen Miller](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/us-jewish-movements-president-trump-must-fire-stephen-miller/) - As entities who represent a broad diversity of American Jewish life, we share a deep concern about White House advisor Stephen Miller’s support for white supremacist ideology and the disturbing ways in which his dangerous views have influenced U.S. immigration policy. Such views have no place in the White House or as a basis of American policy.
- [Provide for Yourself a Rabbi](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/provide-for-yourself-a-rabbi/) - If we are serious about building Jewish community, what could be more important than educating, nurturing and supporting Jewish leaders — rabbis — who will partner with us, teach us, learn with us, and both ground us in our tradition and inspire us to reach for new meaning?
- [Response to US Policy Shift on Settlement Legality](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/response-us-policy-shift-settlement-legality/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are disappointed by and strongly oppose the recent policy statement by U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo declaring that the U.S. no longer views Israeli West Bank settlements as inconsistent with international law.
- [Statement on Recent Rocket Attacks on Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-recent-rocket-attacks-israel/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn the 300 rockets indiscriminately launched at Israel from the Gaza Strip over the past few days.
- [Progressive Israel Network Commends Passage of House Resolution 326 Opposing Annexation, Supporting Two-State Solution](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/progressive-israel-network-commends-passage-house-resolution-326-opposing-annexation-supporting-two-state-solution/) - As leading progressive pro-Israel organizations in the American Jewish community, we commend the House of Representatives for passing House Resolution 326. This landmark resolution, which reaffirms support for a two-state solution, marks the first time the House has formally opposed unilateral Israeli annexation of the West Bank and asserted longstanding US opposition to settlements.
- [Statement Against Cut in Nutritional Aid](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-against-cut-nutritional-aid/) - Hunger is not a political tool to be played with. Food security is a human right. Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association join our friends at MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger in denouncing the Trump Administration’s final rule to strip nutritional benefits for nearly 700,000 food-insecure Americans.
- [New Home for Havaya Arts](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/new-home-havaya-arts/) - We’re beyond excited to share with you that our new home for Havaya Arts is Scripps College in Claremont, Calif.!
- [Collaboration Across Difference: An Innovation Power Tool](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/collaboration-across-difference-innovation-power-tool/) - This article was originally published in eJewish Philanthropy on Nov. 25, 2019.
- [President's Report 2020](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/presidents-report-2020/) - Judaism teaches that seven years is a full cycle, and the current status of Reconstructing Judaism bears this out. Over the last seven years since the merger, and in the six years of my presidency, we have been transformed and are acting more and more every day as an integrated organization whose staff members work collaboratively towards shared goals.
- [Statement on Hanukkah Antisemitic Attacks](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-hanukkah-antisemitic-attacks/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are heartsick once again to learn of the recent spate of antisemitic attacks against members of the New York Jewish community.
- [Welcoming a Guest Into a Sanctuary Congregation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/welcoming-guest-sanctuary-congregation/) - “One who destroys one life destroys the entire world. One who saves one life saves an entire world.” This dictum has new meaning to me since my congregation, Temple Beth Hatfiloh (TBH), welcomed our guest into physical sanctuary, making the commitment to provide housing and shelter for an asylum seeker who is at risk of deportation.
- [Fiddler on the Roof and Trump’s Executive Order](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/fiddler-on-the-roof-and-trumps-executive-order/) - The rise in antisemitism is a real and growing threat, but the prospect of defining Judaism as a nationality is deeply problematic. The Reconstructionist notion of peoplehood sheds light on the weighty issues at stake.
- [Online Exhibit on Women Rabbis Expands](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/online-exhibit-women-rabbis-expands/) - The Jewish Women’s Archive (JWA) this month expanded its online exhibit “Women Rabbis,” which highlights nearly a dozen Reconstructionist clergy as well as the history of the movement.
- [Forces of Nature](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/forces-nature/) - Tara Saltzman, director of lifelong learning at Congregation Beth Evergreen in Denver, reflects on the ups and downs her congregation has experienced on the road to becoming more environmentally friendly.
- [New Jewish Community Founded in Wiesbaden](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/new-jewish-community-founded-wiesbaden/) - The newest Reconstructionist community in Europe is Jüdische Gemeinde Michelsberg (Jewish Community of Michelsberg). It is located in Wiesbaden, the capital city of the State of Hesse, Germany. Expect to hear more about Jüdische Gemeinde Michelsberg and our other new communities in the coming months.
- [Statement on Trump Proposal on Israeli-Palestinian Conflict](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-trump-proposal-israeli-palestinian-conflict/) - For decades Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have advocated for a negotiated, two-state resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on security, dignity, human rights, and freedom for Israelis and Palestinians alike.
- [Day of Learning on Homelessness Combined Learning With Action](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/day-learning-homelessness-combined-learning-action/) - Reconstructing Judaism’s 2020 New York Day of Learning: Jewish Response to Homelessness, combined deep learning and practical action to help those among us who are homeless.
- [Please Join in the National Refugee Shabbat](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/please-join-national-refugee-shabbat/) - We urge every Reconstructionist community to stand with Dor Hadash and HIAS this coming March by participating in National Refugee Shabbat. In this way, we act on our values and gain strength from each other to create the world in which we want to live.
- [Statement from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association on Communal Gatherings during COVID-19 Pandemic](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-reconstructionist-rabbinical-association-communal-gatherings-during-covid-19-pandemic/) - Based on our understanding of the science and the advice of experts, we, rabbis of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, strongly come down on the side of pikuach nefesh - preserving lives. Therefore, we are issuing these guidelines in preparation for the upcoming Passover holiday and in awareness of the likelihood of continued concern over disease spread at this time.
- [When The Threat Is Random, The Jewish Response Is Compassion](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/when-threat-random-jewish-response-compassion/) - As a rabbi, my prescription for most every challenge, drawn out of millennia of Jewish wisdom and practice, is community. But what is the Jewish response when the best way to slow down contagion is by “social distancing”?
- [With synagogues shuttered, Virtual Shabbat Box offers introspection, inspiration](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jns-virtual-shabbat-box-brief/) - In this time of mounting uncertainty, in which the coronavirus (COVID-19) is disrupting normal life and bringing it to a near standstill, Reconstructing Judaism is offering a “Virtual Shabbat Box” filled with essays, meditations and other resources that can be downloaded for Shabbat.
- [COVID-19: Resources for Uncertain Times](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/covid-19-resources-uncertain-times/) - In this time of mounting uncertainty, in which the COVID-19 coronavirus is disrupting normal life and bringing it to a near-standstill, we offer you a Virtual Shabbat Box. This Shabbat Box doesn’t contain challah or candles, but rather essays, meditations and other resources for your senses that you can download and digest for Shabbat.
- [Statement on New Settlement Expansion Announcements](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-new-settlement-expansion-announcements/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are alarmed by the Netanyahu government’s recent announcement that seeks to expand settlements in a way that would cut through Palestinian population centers and deny contiguity to a future Palestinian state. Previous Republican and Democratic US administrations have rejected similar plans with good reason. We call on the Netanyahu government to cancel these plans, and we call on all American Jewish organizations that support a two-state solution to join in this urgent message. We continue to oppose unilateral territorial annexation on the part of the Israeli government, and we remain committed to a just, democratic, and peaceful future for Israelis and Palestinians within a framework of two states for two peoples.
- [Daf Yomi While Sheltering in Place](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/daf-yomi-while-sheltering-place/) - https://www.sefaria.org/Berakhot.54a.3?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=enRabbi Nancy Fuchs Kreimer, Ph.D., reflects on the insights gained from daily Talmud study during the coronavirus pandemic.
- [Jewish Particularism & Universalism: An Interview with Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D.](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-particularism-universalism-interview-rabbi-deborah-waxman-phd/) - In this enriching conversation, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D. and Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz, Ph.D. focus on the things that traditional and Reconstructionist Jews have in common, the challenges that social distancing is posing to community, and ways that Jewish practice can bolster resilience.
- [May We All Be Liberated Soon](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/may-we-all-be-liberated-soon/) - Usually, on Passover, we ask “How is this night different from all other nights?”. This year, many of us are asking, “How does this Passover resemble any we’ve ever experienced?” While social distancing has seemingly changed everything, Passover is still about telling the story of going from oppression to freedom.
- [Whizin Prize Essay Explores the Place of Obligation in Modern Jewish Thought](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/whizin-prize-essay-explores-place-obligation-modern-jewish-thought/) - The Center for Jewish Ethics, affiliated with the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, sponsors an annual essay contest to encourage innovative thinking on contemporary Jewish ethics. This year’s Whizin Prize has been awarded to an essay by Daniel Mackler, titled “Phenomenology of Hiyuv Out of the Sources of Ethics: Joseph Soloveitchik and Mara Benjamin.” The essay is a scholarly exploration of the religious experience of obligation, bringing together a traditional and a feminist perspective.
- [The False Choice Between Safety and the Economy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/false-choice-between-safety-and-economy/) - In its unsigned editorial on May 5, “The False Choice Between Safety and the Economy”, The New York Jewish Week points to the “Reopening Our Institutions” document produced by Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association. The editorial highlights the Reconstructionist movement’s values-based approach to questions pertaining to reopening religious institutions, and championed our movement’s focus on pikuakh nefesh (saving lives) above all other concerns.
- [Guarding and Growing Trust in the Time of Corona](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/guarding-and-growing-trust-time-corona/) - Crystal clear to me, now, is that all the coffees, the story sharing and listening, and the showing up, has resulted in the cultivation of a most rare commodity in our society. Trust.
- [Reopening Our Institutions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reopening-our-institutions/) - Framework for Jewish communities to consider in returning to in-person communal activity
- [Standing Up for Racial Justice and Against Racial Violence](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/standing-up-for-racial-justice-and-against-racial-violence/) - The murder of George Floyd is a blatant display of the systemic racism built into the fabric of American society. To our black and brown siblings: your lives matter. We support non-violent protest to build a more just and equitable world for all people. Let our anger and our love lift us up into a better tomorrow.
- [Ways Into Torah: Multiple Spiritual Intelligences](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/ways-torah-multiple-spiritual-intelligences/) - On the brink of Shavuot, Rabbi Vivie Mayer shares insights into the concept of multiple intelligences as it applies to receiving Torah.
- [Annexation Endangers the Security and Democracy of Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/annexation-endangers-security-and-democracy-israel/) - Recontructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are signatories to the following appeal from J-Link, an international network of progressive Jewish organizations fromIsrael, the United States, Canada, Europe, Latin America, South Africa, and Australia.
- [Navigating the Coronavirus: Jewish Values to Guide Institutions and Individuals Now](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/navigating-coronavirus-jewish-values-guide-institutions-and-individuals-now/) - At the Center for Jewish Ethics, we have created Jewish Values and the Coronavirus, a guide to help frame values-based decision making in this time of pandemic. This web-based resource collects and curates sources from the Torah and rabbinic texts alongside insights from leading ethical thinkers from across the Jewish world and beyond.
- [Ten American Jewish Organizations Send Letter to Gantz, Ashkenazi Opposing Annexation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/ten-american-jewish-organizations-send-letter-gantz-ashkenazi-opposing-annexation/) - Members of the Progressive Israel Network penned the following letter to Alternate Prime Minister Benny Gantz and Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi opposing annexation.
- [Jewish Clergy Letter in Support of Right to Protest](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-clergy-letter-support-right-protest/) - Reconstructionist leaders were among 800 Jewish clergy from across the Jewish spectrum signing a letter in support of the fundamental right to peaceful protest.
- [Principles for a Full Year of Love and Caring](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/principles-full-year-love-and-caring/) - The calendar says the school year should end. However, many Jewish educators, witnessing the effects of the pandemic on their students, and now civic unrest, are challenging the calendar’s norms. Instead of closing down the year, they are asking, “How might we continue to engage our students through the summer?”
- [Cross-Movement Resource Guide Published on Re-Opening Synagogue Buildings](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/cross-movement-resource-guide-published-re-opening-synagogue-buildings/) - This past month, a working group made up of staff at the Reform, Conservative and Reconstructionist movements collaborated, with major support from the Secure Community Network, on putting together a “Guide to the Considerations about Re-Opening Synagogue Buildings.” The document offers synagogues some guidance and suggested methodical steps for decision-making and implementation of re-opening plans.
- [Reconstructing Judaism is Not Free to Desist](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-is-not-free-to-desist/) - Reconstructing Judaism is fully committed to building an anti-racist Jewish community. We state firmly and unequivocally that Black Lives Matter, and that working tirelessly to demonstrate that Black Lives Matter is a Jewish value. As leaders of Reconstructing Judaism, the central organization of the Reconstructionist movement, we commit ourselves to the Community Obligations articulated by Not Free to Desist.
- [Over 600 Jewish Clergy Call on the Israeli Government to Abandon Plans for Annexing the West Bank](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/over-600-jewish-clergy-call-israeli-government-abandon-plans-annexing-west-bank/) - More than 600 rabbis, cantors and seminary students from across the country — including many Reconstructionist rabbis and rabbinic students — have signed on to a public letter warning that the Israeli government’s threatened unilateral annexation in the West Bank “would be a catastrophic mistake…violate human rights, weaken democracy, and make Israelis and Palestinians less secure.”
- [Data Breach Notification](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/data-breach-notification/) - Dear Reconstructing Judaism Family, Recently, we were notified by one of our software vendors, Blackbaud, that they experienced a ransomware attack from February 2020 to May 2020.
- [Against Annexation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/against-annexation/) - We strongly support Senator Chris Van Hollen’s proposed amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act, which stipulates that US security assistance to Israel cannot be used to implement unilateral annexation in the West Bank.
- [Support Project Rozana](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/support-project-rozana/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are encouraging congregations and individuals to support this life-saving fund-raising effort organized by Project Rozana, a well-respected international non-profit organization that is leading a project supported by both Israel and the Palestinian Authority to purchase badly needed ventilators for West Bank and Gaza hospitals in light of the current COVID-19 spike in the region, which threatens to overwhelm Palestinian hospital ICUs.
- [Dreaming Up High Holy Days](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/dreaming-high-holy-days/) - Rabbi Joshua Lesser (RRC ‘99) has had a front seat to one of the most joyful spots of our tragic time. With a group of Jewish leaders from different movements and perspectives, he helped create a Facebook group called Dreaming Up High Holy Days 2020.
- [Synagogues and Congregants: A COVID Covenant](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/synagogues-and-congregants-covid-covenant/) - When COVID-19 hit, synagogues closed their physical doors, pivoting their presence online. Responding to the tensions and conflicts arising from this challenge, Rabbi Nathan Weiner (RRC ‘16) offers a covenental approach guiding synagogue leaders and congregants to navigate these difficult times with integrity, understanding, and generosity of spirit.
- [The Summer We Didn’t Get to Look Away … and Beyond](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/summer-we-didnt-get-look-away-and-beyond/) - This summer we encountered a growing movement that forces us to stare into the face of racial injustice. For those of us who are accepted as white, it demands that we stop looking away. It requires us to try to imagine what it means to raise a child of color in America and examine how we, despite all of our best intentions, fail in our efforts to include and empower people of color in our civil and religious communities.
- [Reconstructing Judaism's President Recognized as LGBT Icon](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaisms-president-recognized-lgbt-icon/) - Reconstructing Judaism’s president, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., has been hailed as an LGBT Icon as part of LGBT History Month. Waxman is the first woman and first lesbian to lead a major Jewish denomination and rabbinical seminary.
- [Lost and Found: Personal Reflections at the High Holidays](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/lost-and-found-personal-reflections-high-holidays/) - Yom Kippur is our people’s day for a grand pause to look back and to look ahead. As we look back, I am honestly saying, and if you would like, join me in saying: “Let me be a little sad,” or, if needed, “deeply sad,” for the things we’ve lost during this most unimaginable year.
- [Reconstructing Judaism Funds Innovative Approach to Serving Unaffiliated in Atlanta](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-funds-innovative-approach-serving-unaffiliated-atlanta/) - Reconstructing Judaism explores and funds innovative ideas for connecting with and serving unengaged and under-engaged populations — in new ways and spaces. Congregation Bet Haverim created “Your Jewish Bridge” in Atlanta, and its founder shares lessons learned after the first year and a half of the project.
- [Mourning, Recovering and Rebuilding](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/mourning-recovering-and-rebuilding/) - This piece was originally published on October 27, 2020 in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette as Mourning, recovering and rebuilding: Two years after the Tree of Life shooting, a community’s response to hate by Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., and Seth Rosen How do you come face to face with murderous destruction and then find the resilience that enables
- [Reconstructing Judaism joins Progressive Israel Network in Opposing New Settlement Expansion Moves](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-joins-progressive-israel-network-opposing-new-settlement-expansion-moves/) - We are alarmed by the recent set of moves by the government of Israel to initiate settlement projects and take other provocative and harmful actions in East Jerusalem and the West Bank, including home demolitions and forced evictions, which further damage the possibility of a negotiated future two-state solution.
- [Why Reconstructionism Now?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/why-reconstructionism-now/) - The existential nature of the Coronavirus pandemic is laying the groundwork for a religious revival, and the Reconstructionist movement is poised to contribute a compelling vision of 21st-century Jewish life as part of this revival.
- [Counting Every Vote](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/counting-every-vote/) - Many American Jews considering voting to be a mitzvah, a commandment. It is essential that every vote is counted so that every voice is heard and so that our full-throated democracy can flourish.
- [Progressive Israel Network Groups Oppose Codification of IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism, Citing Strong Potential for Misuse](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/progressive-israel-network-groups-oppose-codification-ihra-working-definition-antisemitism/) - As organizations that care deeply about the State of Israel and about the wellbeing of the Jewish people, we are deeply committed to the struggle against antisemitism. We are thus obligated to share our concerns about ways in which the effort to combat antisemitism is being misused and exploited to instead suppress legitimate free speech, criticism of Israeli government actions, and advocacy for Palestinian rights. In particular, the effort to enshrine in domestic law and institutional policy the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism, with its accompanying “contemporary examples,” risks wrongly equating what may be legitimate activities with antisemitism.
- [We Must Work to Ensure that the January 6th Insurrection Will Not Disrupt American Democracy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/we-must-work-ensure-january-6th-insurrection-will-not-disrupt-american-democracy/) - We must act now in defense of democracy and in support of a vibrant, principled America that values all voices and that protects all minorities. We must insist that perpetrators of this insurrection — from those who instigated to those who acted — be held accountable. We must work to ensure that the Biden administration works with Congress to enact meaningful reforms in support of racial justice and voting rights, and to combat the white nationalist movement. American democracy is a great, unfolding experiment that requires attention and effort. Let us renew our commitment to the work of furthering it.
- [Jews, Race, and Religion: An Online Lecture Series](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jews-race-and-religion-online-lecture-series/) - Jewish experience offers a valuable entryway into the study of race. Jewish identities and experience complicate conceptions that are overly simplistic or that lack nuance. Jewish history illuminates both the difficulty and the imperative of grappling with race and racism. To deepen our understanding of race, we have organized a series of online talks that will bring leading scholars of race, religion and Jewish life to a broad public.
- [Rabbi Yael Ridberg: Amidst the Pandemic, Letting our Hanukkah Light Shine](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-yael-ridberg-amidst-pandemic-letting-our-hanukkah-light-shine/) - Rabbi Yael Ridberg writes: It is no secret that much of the world can’t wait for 2020 to end. The compounded losses brought to us by the COVID-19 pandemic have penetrated every layer of our existence, and hope and joy have been elusive and fleeting. As we approach the darkest days of the year, we also anticipate holidays of light that we need so badly. We have been searching for miracles all year: an end to the suffering, to be able to embrace one another again, and to gather without concern. This week Jews all over the world will light the eight-branch Hanukkah candelabra to remember and celebrate the unexpected miracles found in the depths of despair.
- [A Beat to Which We All Can Move’: A Call to Jews to Embrace the Pursuit of Racial Justice](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/a-beat-to-which-we-all-can-move/) - From its very beginnings, the Jewish story is full of journeys. When it comes to racial justice work, the Reconstructionist movement is in the midst of a profound journey.
- [Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association join chorus of Jewish voices opposing KKL-JNF plan to purchase West Bank land to expand settlements](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/israel-statement-february-21/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association strongly oppose the plan of Keren Kayemet L’Israel / Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) to expand Jewish settlements by purchasing private land in the West Bank. We join our friends and colleagues in the Reform movement, the Masorti (Conservative) movement, Liberal Judaism (UK), the Reform Movement in Israel, the World Union for Progressive Judaism, and many others in the global Jewish community in speaking out against this plan.
- [In support of Israeli organizations urging their government to provide immediate access to the COVID-19 vaccination in the West Bank and Gaza](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/israel-covid-19-vaccine-west-bank-gaza-statement/) - We join the call of the many Israeli organizations that are urging their leaders to act quickly and cooperatively with the Palestinian Authority to develop a vaccination plan that will meet the urgent public health needs of everyone living in Israel and the Palestinian Territories. Because COVID-19 knows no boundaries, the wellbeing of Palestinians is inextricably connected to that of Israelis.
- [Call for Nominations to the Reconstructionist Movement’s Two Commissions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/movement-commissions-annual-call-for-nominations/) - Nominations are open for the Reconstructionist movement’s Tikkun Olam Commission and Joint Israel Commission.
- [Reconstructing Judaism Names Rabbi Sandra Lawson Inaugural Director of Racial Diversity, Equity and Inclusion](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rabbi-sandra-lawson-named-inaugural-director-racial-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/) - Rabbi Sandra Lawson (she/her), a trailblazing leader, will join Reconstructing Judaism as its inaugural Director of Racial Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Working with senior staff, lay leaders, clergy, rabbinical students and Reconstructionist communities, Lawson will help Reconstructing Judaism realize its deeply held aspiration of becoming an anti-racist organization and movement. Lawson is a 2018 Reconstructionist Rabbinical College graduate.
- [American Values, Religious Voices: A Letter to America's Leadership](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/american-values-religious-voices-letter-americas-leadership/) - As part of the American Values, Religious Voices project, Elsie Stern writes to America’s executive and legislative leadership on the 50th day of President Biden’s administration to reflect on what it means to be “in the thick of” sacred work.
- [Rooted and Relevant: 21st Century Jewish Life](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/rooted-and-relevant-21st-century-jewish-life/) - In her presentiation, Rooted and Relevant: 21st Century Jewish Life, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., explores how Reconstructionist Judaism can lead the way in the post-COVID world toward a religious revival that meets this century’s new realities.
- [A Welcome Israeli Supreme Court Ruling on Non-Orthodox Conversions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/welcome-israeli-supreme-court-ruling-non-orthodox-conversions/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association welcome the recently announced landmark ruling by Israel’s Supreme Court to recognize non-Orthodox conversions carried out in Israel for the purposes of matters relating to eligibility for Israeli citizenship.
- [American Jewish organizations condemn military rule in Burma, call for U.S. action](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/american-jewish-organizations-condemn-military-rule-burma-call-us-action/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined with other members of the Jewish Rohingya Justice Network in condemning the military’s coup in Burma (Myanmar), its brutal crackdown on peaceful protests, and the unjust and arbitrary detention and arrest of democratic leaders, activists, and protestors.
- [Accountability is One Step Toward Justice: Response to a Verdict in the Murder of George Floyd](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/accountability-one-step-toward-justice-response-verdict-murder-george-floyd/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association applaud Tuesday’s guilty verdict in the murder of George Floyd as an important step toward basic accountability for racial violence in America. We join our allies around the world in taking a moment to breathe - a basic human right denied to George Floyd and countless others. For far too long, impunity has been the norm for actors of state-sanctioned violence against Black and Brown people, a pillar of the American racial caste system that has its roots in slavery and the lynchings of the Jim Crow era.
- [Ensuring the Liberation of All People: A Passover Message](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/ensuring-liberation-all-people-passover-message/) - We’d like to share this video message for Passover 2021 from Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., the president of Reconstructing Judaism.
- [Statement Condemning Atlanta Attack](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-condemning-atlanta-attack/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association mourn the devastating loss of life Tuesday in Atlanta, Georgia. Our hearts are filled with sorrow as we learn of the targeting of Asian American women. We stand with Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) members of our Jewish community and with the broader AAPI community in grief and solidarity for those lost
- [‘Love your neighbor as yourself’: How Torah is helping me process Derek Chauvin’s conviction](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/love-your-neighbor-yourself-how-torah-helping-me-process-derek-chauvins-conviction/) - Many people have asked how I feel about the Chavin verdict. Whenever I struggle to find words, I’m grateful for the teachings in the Torah, and this week is no exception.
- [North American Jewish Groups Denounce Antisemitic Attacks in Wake of Hostilities Between Israel and Hamas](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/north-american-jewish-groups-denounce-antisemitic-attacks/) - As North American Jewish denominations representing a significant majority of American Jewry, we join together to uniformly condemn rising incidences of antisemitism. We commend the many religious, civil society and political leaders of goodwill who have denounced these actions and are urging and implementing steps to strengthen efforts to combat antisemitism and antisemitic attacks.
- [Statement on the Spiraling Violence between Israelis and Palestinians](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-spiraling-violence-between-israelis-and-palestinians/) - The spiraling violence that began in Jerusalem and now includes all of Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank is heartbreaking and frightening. We condemn the rocket attacks by Hamas and Islamic Jihad that have targeted civilians, claimed Israeli lives, and terrified children. We also mourn the scores of dead in Gaza, including dozens of children, and we call on Israel’s leaders to remember that their powerful military response can be devastating for families and children there.
- [Webinar on Jerusalem Crisis and Current Violence](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/webinar-jerusalem-crisis-and-current-violence/) - Recent days have seen an escalation in violence in Jerusalem, and sadly, violence has been flaring throughout today, Jerusalem Day. With the violent events at Al Aqsa mosque, police crackdowns on Palestinian protesters, the threat of home evictions in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of East Jerusalem, and today’s incendiary Flag March, the city is in a state of crisis. Hamas rockets have fallen on Jerusalem and other parts of Israel and have been met by retaliatory attacks in Gaza. This is a highly volatile and dynamic situation — and we don’t know where it will lead. Members of Reconstructionist communities and rabbis in the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are invited to join in an urgent webinar with leading experts.
- [Center for Jewish Ethics Awards Whizin Prize to Essay Focusing on Role of Women in Modern Orthodoxy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/center-jewish-ethics-awards-whizin-prize-essay-focusing-role-women-modern-orthodoxy/) - The Center for Jewish Ethics, affiliated with the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, has awarded the 2021 Whizin Prize — an essay contest to encourage innovative thinking on contemporary Jewish ethics — to Miriam Attia, a doctoral student in religious ethics at the University of Chicago Divinity School.
- [Grief and Condolences over Tragedy at Lag B'Omer Celebration in Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/grief-and-condolences-over-tragedy-lag-bomer-celebration-israel/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are shocked and saddened by the tragedy that has taken place at Mount Meron in Israel’s northern region.
- [Dynamic Hebrew Bible Scholar to Lead Reconstructionist Rabbinical College](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/dynamic-hebrew-bible-scholar-lead-reconstructionist-rabbinical-college/) - Amanda Beckenstein Mbuvi, Ph.D., has been named the next vice president for academic affairs at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College (RRC) outside Philadelphia. Mbuvi (she/her), a scholar of Hebrew Bible, brings to this role a wealth of academic, administrative and nonprofit leadership experience.
- [Reconstructing Judaism Adopts Commitments on Racial Justice](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-adopts-commitments-racial-justice/) - The Board of Governors of Reconstructing Judaism has adopted a comprehensive set of commitments to racial justice.
- [NPR Story on Rising Antisemitism and the Role of Allies](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/npr-story-rising-antisemitism-and-role-allies/) - In the wake of the recent armed hostilities between Israel and Gaza, American Jews have increasingly experienced antisemitic harassment and violence. In a recent NPR story, “Antisemitism Spikes, And Many Jews Wonder: ‘Where Are Our Allies?’”, Rabbi Sandra Lawson recounts her experience being targeted on social media.
- [America's First Bat Mitzvah and its Legacy for American Jewish Life](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/americas-first-bat-mitzvah-and-its-legacy-american-jewish-life/) - The first American bat mitzvah took place nearly a century ago, but its effects reverberate to this day. This podcast episode explores how the bat mitzvah helped pave the way for greater inclusion of women in public Jewish ritual and practice and laid the groundwork for further steps toward inclusion.
- [The "Next Normal" and Our Movement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/next-normal-and-our-movement/) - The last sixteen months of the pandemic have highlighted the necessity of community as something both poignant and urgent. With many of us physically removed from our “normal” sites of gathering (i.e., workplaces, schools, cultural venues, “third spaces,” places of worship), we’ve learned to cultivate relationships online, to use digital tools to create new places of meeting and connection, and to experiment with alternative and even more accessible forms of engagement. Despite the very real challenges of long-term isolation and Zoom fatigue, we’ve found new ways to experience community, to address pragmatic needs, and to fill our souls.
- [Jewish Rohingya Justice Network Applauds Introduction of The Bipartisan, Bicameral Burma Act](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/jewish-rohingya-justice-network-applauds-introduction-bipartisan-bicameral-burma-act/) - The Jewish Rohingya Justice Network applauds House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY), House Foreign Affairs Asia-Pacific Subcommittee Ranking Member Steve Chabot (R-OH) and Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD) for their leadership in introducing the Burma Unified through Rigorous Military Accountability Act of 2021 or the BURMA Act. This legislation comes at a critical moment for all of the people of Burma, including the Rohingya people, and we call on every member of Congress to support this bill’s passage without delay.
- [Creating Radically Welcoming Communities](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/creating-radically-welcoming-communities/) - In this workshop, Rabbi Lawson addresses the question, “What do our Jewish texts and values say about welcoming others into our communities?”
- [Statement on the No Fear Rally](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-no-fear-rally/) - Although Reconstructing Judaism has not been asked to participate in the No Fear rally, and has therefore had no opportunity to participate in its messaging or planning, we endorse it in principle because we are firmly opposed to antisemitism and, in our efforts to foster engaged and substantive Jewish life and in our tikkun olam and public square work, we act continuously to counter it.
- [Nobel Prize Winner Has Roots in Reconstructionist Affiliate Dor Hadash](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/nobel-prize-winner-has-roots-reconstructionist-affiliate-dor-hadash/) - Mazel tov to Joshua Angrist, an Israeli-American economist who was awarded the 2021 Nobel prize in economics, together with David Card and Guido Imbens. Angrist was raised in Pittsburgh and celebrated his bar mitzvah at Congregation Dor Hadash, a Reconstructionist affiliate.
- [New Online Community for Jewish Poets and Liturgists Aims to Produce “Ripple” Effect](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/new-online-community-jewish-poets-and-liturgists-aims-produce-ripple-effect/) - For 20 years, Ritualwell has served as a pioneering resource for original Jewish liturgy and rituals, along the way nurturing an informal network of liturgists, poets and ritual innovators. Now, it has launched ADVOT @ Ritualwell, a formal online community offering unprecedented support and empowerment to writers who are imagining new ways to mark life’s most salient moments in a Jewish context.
- [Reconstructionists Featured at Society for Jewish Ethics Conference](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionists-featured-society-jewish-ethics-conference/) - The Reconstructionist movement is being well represented at the 2022 Annual Meeting of the Society of Jewish Ethics, taking place Jan. 6-9 over Zoom. In fact, in terms of the number of presenters —at least three — the movement will have a greater presence at this year’s virtual gathering than at any time since the first conference was held in 2003.
- [National Endowment for the Humanities Funds the Center for Jewish Ethics for Groundbreaking, Project on Race, Racism and American Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/national-endowment-humanities-funds-center-jewish-ethics-groundbreaking-project-race-racism-0/) - The Center for Jewish Ethics at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College has received a transformative grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) to fund cross-disciplinary research into race, racism and the American Jewish experience. The center’s aims have an impact far beyond the academy by developing educational materials and programs for youth, individual adult learners, and communities. The one-year, $199,850 grant will enable the Levin-Lieber Program in Jewish Ethics to establish and run a new initiative tentatively called “Race, Religion and American Judaism: Cross-Disciplinary Research, Public Scholarship and Curriculum Development.”
- [In Memoriam](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/memoriam/) - On the eve of Thanksgiving, we feel grateful for one of the most extraordinary things about the Reconstructionist movement — the caliber of people who are attracted to it. We are lucky that so many of these extraordinary people step up into leadership, on our behalf and in the wider world. Over the last several months, we have lost several national leaders, and we write now to share some reflections on these folks who offered the best of themselves to us and on our behalf.
- [Responding to Amnesty International’s report on Israel and the charge of apartheid](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/responding-amnesty-internationals-report-israel-and-charge-apartheid/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have issued the following statement in response to the recent Amnesty International report: Apartheid is one of the most shocking words in the English language, conjuring images of the brutal and racist South African regime that decades of struggle brought to an end in 1994. Last week, Amnesty International became the latest human rights organization to accuse Israel of the crime of apartheid. Amnesty’s report follows reports by Human Rights Watch and by the Israeli human rights organization, B’Tselem, both of which level the same charge. Over the past several days, we have taken the time needed to study Amnesty’s 280-page report and develop our response.
- [Choosing Life: A Reconstructionist Response to Events in Colleyville, Texas.](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/choosing-life-reconstructionist-response-events-colleyville-texas/) - Reconstructing Judaism offers prayers, and positive action steps, following an 11-hour hostage standoff at a synagogue in Colleyville, Texas.
- [Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association join letter urging US Senate to fund Iron Dome replenishment](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-and-reconstructionist-rabbinical-association-join-letter-urging-us/) - Today, Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association along with 10 other national Jewish organizations urged the Senate to quickly approve funding for the replenishment of Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system. While the House overwhelmingly voted, on a bipartisan basis, to fund its replenishment last year, the legislation has stalled in the Senate.
- [Women’s Health Protection Act (WHPA)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/womens-health-protection-act-whpa/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined more than 130 other faith and civil rights organizations on a letter urging the Senate to pass the Women’s Health Protection Act (WHPA), which would create a new tool for safeguarding access to high-quality abortion care and securing constitutional rights by protecting patients and providers from dangerous political interference. While the bill did not garner enough votes needed to pass this time around, we are proud to have stood with this coalition for reproductive justice and will continue to do so in the weeks, months, and years ahead.
- [Reconstructionist Set to Gather, In-person and Virtually to Highlight the Present and Imagine the Future](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-set-gather-person-and-virtually-highlight-present-and-imagine-future/) - Reconstructionists gather for a movement convention, B’Yachad: Reconstructing Judaism Together.
- [Reconstructing Judaism Joins More than 375 Interfaith Groups Urging Biden to Expedite Refugee Efforts](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-judaism-joins-more-375-interfaith-groups-urging-biden-expedite-refugee-efforts/) - Following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s March 16 speech to Congress, more than 375 Jewish and other faith-based groups and organizations urged President Joe Biden to take immediate steps to welcome refugees from Ukraine. Jewish Federations of North America spearheaded the letter, sent March 18.
- [Reconstructing Gatherings for a Hybrid World](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructing-gatherings-hybrid-world/) - In this piece, which originally appeared in The Times of Israel, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., outlines the goals and hopes of B'Yachad: Reconstructing Judaism Together, the movement convention.
- [How one trailblazing rabbi is fighting racism in the Reconstructionist movement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/how-one-trailblazing-rabbi-fighting-racism-reconstructionist-movement/) - This article originally appeared in the Forward. Sign up here to get the Forward's free email newsletters delivered to your inbox.
- [The Reconstructionist Movement Comes Together in New Hinei Mah Tov Video](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/reconstructionist-movement-comes-together-new-hinei-mah-tov-video/) - As part of our recent convention, B’yachad: Reconstructing Judaism Together, we shared this video of a new setting for Hinei Mah Tov by RRC student Solomon Hoffman. It features over 150 Reconstructionists representing 40 of our communities from across North America and beyond. The participants reflect the spectrum of our movement—lay leaders, Rabbis, Cantors, students, teachers, children, elders, musicians, singers, dancers, artists—all sharing in this collective project.
- [B’Yachad: Reconstructing Judaism Together: ‘A Taste of the World We Hope to Build’](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/byachad-reconstructing-judaism-together-taste-world-we-hope-build/) - Koach Baruch Frazier began with a blessing. "Elohai neshamah shenatata bi tehorah hi", chanted Frazier: “My God, the soul that you have placed within me is pure.”
- [A mid-Passover message during a time of pain in Israel and Palestine](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/mid-passover-message-during-time-pain-israel-and-palestine/) - Three sacred seasons are overlapping - Passover, Ramadan, and Easter - days of holiness that celebrate liberation, humility, compassion, and rebirth. We dearly wish that we could be marking this confluence of holy days with celebrations of steady and courageous steps forward towards peace, justice, and co-existence in Israel and Palestine.
- [Or Zarua a Spiritual Home for Boomers](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/or-zarua-spiritual-home-boomers/) - Or Zarua, a suburban-Philadelphia community serving baby boomers, was started with funding from Reconstructing Judaism’s Auerbach Entrepreneurial Grant Program.
- [Statement on Terrorist Attacks in Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/news/statement-terrorist-attacks-israel/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are horrified and saddened by yesterday’s terrorist attack in Tel Aviv, and by the recent attacks against Israelis in Beersheva, B’nei Brak, and Hadera.

## Pages

- [Home](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/) - Reconstructing Judaism: the central organization of the groundbreaking, always-evolving Reconstructionist movement. We help build thriving Jewish communities, empower individuals to lead lives of deeper meaning and purpose, train rabbis who make a difference, and work to bring about a more just and sustainable world.
- [The Rabbi Deborah Waxman Fund for Innovative Leadership](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/waxman-tribute/) - A gift to the Rabbi Deborah Waxman Fund for Innovative Leadership is an investment in leaders prepared to meet complexity with confidence and moral imagination.
- [The Center for Jewish Ethics](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/) - About The Center for Jewish Ethics The Center for Jewish Ethics is where study and action meet. We draw on Jewish texts, experience and tradition to help people and communities address the ethical challenges of contemporary life. Established in 1994, the Levin-Lieber Family Program in Jewish Ethics: Trains future rabbis to serve as ethical guides
- [Thriving Communities Leadership Calls](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/thriving-communities-leadership-calls/) - Thriving Communities Leadership Calls This page contains a regularly updated list of leadership calls offered to congregational leadership, along with accompanying resources. If you have any questions, please reach out to Jacob Weinberg, Associate for Thriving Communities, at JWeinberg@ReconstructingJudaism.org. FY26 Calls New Presidents’ Call Pt. 1 – 6.17.26 Recording of the 6.17.26 Call Resources Roles
- [Thriving Communities Department](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/thriving-communities/) - Thriving Communities Department The Department for Thriving Communities at Reconstructing Judaism works to engage, cultivate and strengthen diverse communities that align with Reconstructionist values. We do this by providing expertise and targeted opportunities for every affiliated community through consultations, coaching and referrals, rabbinic placement, learning networks and other programming. We also develop resources for congregations
- [Employment Opportunities](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/employment/) - Reconstructing Judaism is a dynamic and progressive workplace. People and relationships are central to who we are and what we do. Our employees have said that they experience “a sense of making a difference” and that they love working with “smart, creative and interesting people.” Diversity is a core value of our organization. We are
- [Affliation and Dues](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/affliation-and-dues/) - Affliation and Dues We ask affiliated congregations to contribute 1% to 2% of their annual budget in dues. That contribution goes a long way to supporting our communities and our sharable resources. Our dues structure encourages affiliated congregations and havurot to use a values-based decision-making process in their fiscal planning to help determine their dues
- [Transgender Day of Remembrance](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/trans-day-of-remembrance/) - Transgender Day of Remembrance is observed annually on November 20. For nearly 30 years, this day has been dedicated to honoring the memory of transgender individuals whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence. The day also spotlights the ongoing efforts to achieve full trans equality and justice, serving as a reminder that we
- [The Season of Our Democracy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/election-day-usa/) - Shavuot is a lot more than just cheesecake and confirmation. It’s a celebration of the central religious moment when God reveals the Torah at Mount Sinai.
- [Tisha B’Av](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/tisha-bav/) - On Tisha B’Av, the ninth day of the month of Av, we mourn the destruction of the first and second Temples and for numerous other events that befell our people throughout the ages. Together, we lament ancient and current suffering of our people and all people around the world. We’ve gathered these Reconstructionist resources to
- [Passover](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/passover/) - Time to celebrate Purim, the holiday of carnivals, costumes and hamantashen. The story behind the holiday also speaks to standing against anti-semitism.
- [Purim](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/purim/) - Time to celebrate Purim, the holiday of carnivals, costumes and hamantashen. The story behind the holiday also speaks to standing against anti-semitism.
- [Hanukkah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/hanukkah/) - With so much darkness in the world, Jews and and our allies need the light of Hanukkah more than ever. Reconstructing Judaism is honored to bring you resources that are a pathway to bringing more light in your celebration and to the world. Looking for a refresher on how to light candles? A recipe
- [Simchat Torah and Shemini Atzeret](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/simchat-torah-and-shemini-atzeret/) - Sukkot's ending is marked by Shemini Atzeret (eight day of assembly) & Simchat Torah - a joyful celebration of the centrality of the Torah to Jewish life.
- [Sukkot](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/sukkot/) - “When putting up a sukkah, we experience the simple joy that comes with building something we know will not last forever —just as when we build a sandcastle,” writes Rabbi Eliott Tepperman in The Guide to Jewish Practice. The festival of sukkot grounds us in the impermanence of so many things. It reminds us of
- [Yom Kippur](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/high-holidays/yom-kippur/) - How can we emerge from Yom Kippur one step closer to our best selves? “Yom Kippur’s extended mediation on morality and fragility helps us to cultivate a deepened awareness of life and our engagement with it,” writes Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D. “We can emerge from the holy day with an increased capacity for openheartedness,
- [Rosh Hashanah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/high-holidays/rosh-hashanah/) - The creation of the world, the sovereignty of God and divine judgment: Traditionally, those are the major themes of Rosh Hashanah.
- [Across the Movement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/disability-and-accessibility/across-the-movement/) - Discover Reconstructionist resources such as language, printable signs, and more.
- [Shavuot](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/shavuot/) - Shavuot is a lot more than just cheesecake and confirmation. It’s a celebration of the central religious moment when God reveals the Torah at Mount Sinai.
- [Race, Religion, and American Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/jews-race-and-religion/) - As Americans of all backgrounds confront structural racism and seek to understand our own roles and responsibilities, learning about racism and its history is critical. Race, Religion, and American Judaism uses the prism of Jewish life to examine complexities of identity, culture and society. With support from the National Endowment of the Humanities, we sponsored
- [Best Practices](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/disability-and-accessibility/best-practices/) - Find resources for best practices in Jewish disability and accessibly work for your community. You'll find resources from some of our Reconstructionist communities, as well as guides and websites from the larger Jewish community that can help you make decisions in the work ahead.
- [Tikkun Olam Commission](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/tikkun-olam/tikkun-olam-commission-2/) - The Tikkun Olam Commission (TOC) is a structure of the Reconstructionist movement comprised of rabbis and lay people who work on social justice issues on behalf of the movement. It is the primary body vested with responsibility for formulating and vetting positions for the Reconstructionist movement, for consideration by the board of governors and the plenum, and
- [Repairing the World/Tikkun Olam](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/tikkun-olam/) - Tikkun olam (social activism, or literally “world repair”) is an attempt to repair breaches of justice in our world. Tikkun olam is a central wellspring of spirituality and meaning for many contemporary Jews. The Reconstructionist movement has helped define the vanguard of social justice in the Jewish community, advancing causes from equality for women and
- [Congregational Resources](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/) - Resources for your Community from the thriving communities team Each of our affiliated congregations and havurot has its own vibrant, deeply rooted approach to fostering Jewish life. That is why our Thriving Communities Team strives to support your unique community with monthly learning opportunities, a wide array of written resources on topics like leadership and
- [Upcoming Events](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/events/) - Sorry, no upcoming events at this time. Past Events Sunday, June 7, 2026 Reparations and Repairing the World: A Workshop on the Racial Wealth Gap Sunday, June 7, 2026 The RRC Beit Midrash: An Introduction to the Talmud Wednesday, May 20, 2026 The RRC Beit Midrash: Resisting Authoritarianism: Jewish Ethics and Jewish Politics Tuesday, May
- [Workshops](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/workshops/) - B’Yachad: Rekindling Light and Joy Workshops *workshop details subject to change Workshop Slot 1: Thursday, 10:00 am - 11:15 am From Values to Action: Deepen and Elevate Jewish Service Learning in Your Community Speaker(s): Amy Weiss Track: Boldly Relevant Description: In this session, Repair the World will guide you in their approach to ethical and
- [Speakers](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/speakers/) - PLENARY Speakers Find more information about our plenary sessions Jillian Best AdlerBoard Vice President, Camp Havaya Jillian Best Adler is an early childhood consultant who offers coaching and training to early childhood educators and facilitates workshops and support groups for parents of young children. All of her work, including her parenting, is values-based, informed by
- [Schedule](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/schedule/) - Convention 2026 Plenary sessions Each day, the entire convention community will come together for a shared session. All plenaries will open and close with a short meditation, song, or prayer setting a tone for rekindling light and joy. Read more about our plenary speakers here. Thursday, March 12: Opening Plenary: Protecting Democracy and Strengthening Activism We
- [B’Yachad - Reconstructing Judaism's Convention](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/) - Reconstructing Judaism's Convention Join us March 12-15, 2026 in Philadelphia to rekindle light and joy. Why B’Yachad? Because in these turbulent times, we need to rekindle light and create joy as a community. We will learn, pray, and celebrate. Together, we can begin to create the world we want to live in. Register here לַיְּהוּדִים
- [Ritualwell Write-in](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/partner-conferences/ritualwell-conference/) - Ritualwell's WRITE-IN: A writers' retreat just for you Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. EDT – registration opening August 1! Center City Philadelphia | $175 Ritualwell’s writers’ retreat is for you! Whether you’re a hobbyist or a seasoned author, it’s essential to carve out time to hone your craft, find
- [Registration](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/registration/) - Convention Registration Form Full Ticket Options* Early Bird: $1,080 (purchase by 1/12/26) Full Price: $1,200 Partial Ticket Options Thursday – Friday (before dinner): $425 Friday (dinner) – Sunday: $875 Friday Ticket (Friday day, shabbat dinner and kabbalat shabbat): $360 Saturday shabbat morning (davening and brunch): $75 Saturday Ticket (Saturday day, dinner, and Havdallah concert):
- [RRA Convention](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/partner-conferences/rra-conference/) - Join the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association as we gather for meaningful connection, learning, and celebration. Together, we will explore where we are in this pivotal moment and how we will lead our communities into the future. Our gathering begins Monday evening, March 9 with dinner offsite, followed by programming that starts first thing Tuesday morning, March
- [Frequently Asked Questions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/faq/) - Frequently Asked Questions Where can I find information about the event agenda and schedule? The preliminary schedule is on our website here. Check back for updates on the website, and in the convention app (available for download in 2026), as we get closer. Once you register for convention, you will receive a newsletter with regular
- [Vendors](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/vendors/) - Vendor & Exhibitor Opportunities Join us as a vendor or exhibitor at Reconstructing Judaism’s B’Yachad Convention and connect with clergy, educators, lay leaders and community members from Reconstructionist communities across the world. This transformative gathering will bring together hundreds of participants representing synagogues, havurot and organizations serving thousands of Jewish families committed to building vibrant,
- [Privacy Policy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/privacy-policy/) - Privacy Policy We at Reconstructing Judaism are committed to protecting the privacy and security of your visits to this website. Outlined below is our online privacy policy. This privacy policy addresses our practices regarding information collected from users of our BYachad App for our current convention, our BYachad web app, and visitors of this website –
- [Ritual Resources](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/disability-and-accessibility/inclusive-ritual-resources/) - Find prayers, rituals, and congregational resources to uplift your services that include everyone.
- [Kids and Teaching](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/disability-and-accessibility/kids-and-teaching-2/) - Fun and creative educational resources for kids and teens.
- [Support the Future of Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/2026-monthly-donor-campaign/) - Find out what your monthly support makes possible at Reconstructing Judaism.
- [Make your impact at Reconstructing Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/support/) - Make your impact at Reconstructing Judaism Your support powers Reconstructionist communities, educates innovative rabbis, connects Jewish seekers online, promotes justice rooted in Jewish values and more. Thank you. Donate now Learn More About Planned Giving In a time when so many are weary and anxious, our movement is helping people find joy — not by
- [Legacy Giving at Reconstructing Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/support/planned-giving/) - The Kaplan Society A Legacy for the Future of Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College For more than a century, the Reconstructionist movement has shaped a Judaism that is intellectually alive, ethically grounded, and responsive to the evolving needs of Jewish life. Rooted in Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan’s vision of Judaism as an evolving religious civilization, the movement has strengthened communities, prepared generations of rabbis, created enduring ritual and learning resources, and served as a moral
- [Reparations in Action: How to Move from Resolving to Repairing](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reparations-shabbat/reparations-in-action-how-to-move-from-resolving-to-repairing/) - Reparations in Action: How to Move from Resolving to Repairing Sunday, February 2, 2025 | 1 - 3 p.m. EST on Zoom In January 2023, the Reconstructionist Movement passed a reparations resolution, committing ourselves to work to repair the foundational harms our societies are built on. The Tikkun Olam Commission has been closely tracking many
- [Reparations Curricula for Congregational Study](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reparations-shabbat/reparations-curricula-for-congregational-study/) - I. Reparations Through a Reconstructionist Lens An asynchronous adaptation of the recorded sessions from our movement-wide Day of Learning on Reparations, developed by RRC Racial Justice Rabbinic Intern, Alana Krivo-Kaufman. This innovative approach uses ritual, discussion, text study, and personal reflection to guide a group of students in deeply engaging with the amazing Torah shared during
- [Support Evolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/evolve-donate/)
- [Reparations Shabbat](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reparations-shabbat/) - Parashat Bo: January 23-25, 2026 Join us in participating in the movement-wide Reparations Shabbat. It is an opportunity to continue the deep reckoning with racial harm and accountability that we began as a movement with the passage of the Reconstructionist Reparations Resolution in January 2023. In early 2025, the Tikkun Olam Commission (TOC) started this
- [Reparations](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reparations/) - In January 2023 the Reconstructionist Movement passed a resolution on reparation, committing ourselves to reckoning with the foundational harms our societies are built upon. Two years later, at the end of January 2025, twenty Reconstructionist communities participated in our first Reparations Shabbat weekend. Reparations Resolution - Full Text Participate in Reparations Shabbat What do we mean
- [A Year of Learning](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/year-of-learning/) - Let’s tackle big questions together in the New Year. The Jewish New Year is here, and we’re kicking it off with a dynamic lineup that has something for everyone. Ready to jump in? Our signature approach of Learning, Doing, Reconstructing means you’ll study with brilliant minds, engage in hands-on experiences, and help reimagine Jewish life for today’s
- [Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/israel/) - Where We Stand: The Reconstructionist Movement, Israel and Zionism From our movement’s beginnings in the 1920s, we have expressed a deep commitment to the flourishing of Jewish life in the Land of Israel based on principles of democracy, Jewish religious pluralism, Jewish cultural renewal and the pursuit of compromise and peace with the Palestinians. In
- [Inclusion](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/inclusion/) - The conscious efforts on the part of the Reconstructionist movement to expand who feels included and who is home in the Jewish community is clearly bearing fruit. – Rabbi Ari Lev Fornari Tweet Inclusion is a core principle of Reconstructing Judaism. We strive to create communities where all people can experience Jewish life and Jewish
- [Safety and Welcoming](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/safety-and-welcoming/) - Safety and Welcoming Reconstructionist communities are warm, nurturing places for Jewish life—and Jewish lives. This page offers a collection of resources to help you welcome the widest possible audience into your special, sacred space, and to ensure the safety and well-being of all who dwell within. Safety: Steps Congregations Can Take to Improve Safety and
- [Rosen Scholarship Campaign](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/rosen-scholarship-campaign/) - Rosen Scholarship Campaign *Update 11/12/25: We did it — together! You helped raise over $300,000 for rabbinic scholarships. This completes the match portion of our campaign, but you can still give to RRC’s scholarship fund. Your gift will help us support even more future rabbis. Every gift to Reconstructionist Rabbinical College scholarships was matched dollar-for-dollar—up
- [Sponsors](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/sponsors/) - sponsorship Opportunities Sponsorship of Reconstructing Judaism’s B’Yachad Convention offers your organization meaningful visibility and brand recognition as we gather clergy, educators, lay leaders and community members from Reconstructionist communities across the world. This transformative gathering will bring together hundreds of participants representing synagogues, havurot and organizations serving thousands of Jewish families committed to building vibrant,
- [High Holidays](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/high-holidays/) - Yamim Nora’im. The Days of Awe, translated from the Hebrew, often referred to in English as the High Holidays: the holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
- [B'Yachad Registration Form](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/registration/byachad-registration-form/)
- [Principles and Policies](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/principles-and-policies/) - Principles and Policies Reconstructing Judaism seeks to build and maintain a convention that supports the values of a kehillah kedoshah — a holy community. Convention is an opportunity to find light in learning from each other, joy in the richness of our diversity, and celebration in community. Together we strive for covenantal community across difference,
- [Virtual Shabbat Box](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Your Virtual Shabbat Box holds many ways to celebrate the day. Choose what nurtures you: listen, watch or read. Subscribe to the Virtual Shabbat Box September 5-6 Read: During Elul Poet and painter Cathleen Cohen shares powerful words for the month of Elul: “Hand to hand, we must build mirrors / from
- [Torat Yovel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/torat-yovel/) - Torat Yovel: The Torah of Jubilee The Torat Yovel: The Torah of Jubilee yearly celebration was created by the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association to honor those rabbis who have been in the rabbinate for fifty years. Please feel free to donate below in their honor. All donations go to the Rabbinic Campaign for the Reconstructionist Movement,
- [FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/israel/frequently-asked-questions/) - Reconstructionist Jews believe in the deep bond of Jewish peoplehood, a global sense of connection, care, and responsibility that links us to each other and to Israel. At the same time, Judaism commands us to pursue justice and uphold the dignity of all people. Many in our community struggle with how to hold both love
- [Meeting the Moment](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/meeting-the-moment/) - RRC students and rabbis are ready to meet the challenges of this moment.
- [Test page](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/test-page/) - [test-box]
- [Partner Conferences](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/partner-conferences/) - Tuesday, March 10 – Thursday, March 12 Learn More Wednesday, March 11 Learn More
- [Virtual Shavuot Box](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/shavuot-box/) - Virtual Shavuot Box Your Virtual Shavuot Box holds many ways to celebrate this holiday. Choose what nurtures you. Eat, listen, watch or read. Chag sameach! May 30-31 Read: Ahavat Hinam: Creating Covenantal Community Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., in a speech adapted from remarks delivered at RRCs graduation, discusses the importance and challenge of building covenantal
- [Submit a Workshop Proposal/Call for Presentations](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/byachad/call-for-presentations/)
- [RENA (Reconstructionist Educators of North America)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/rena/) - The Reconstructionist Educators of North America RENA, is a professional group for leaders of schools in Reconstructionist congregations.“Ree-nah” in Hebrew means both “spirited song” and also “shout.” As Reconstructionist Educators of North America, we come together to share the joy we find in Jewish educational leadership, and to speak up to have our voices be
- [Shutafut](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/israel/shutafut/) - Shutafut, meaning “partnership” in Hebrew, is a project of the Joint Israel Commission (JIC). Its mission is twofold: to inform and to connect. Shutafut seeks to inform Reconstructionists worldwide about remarkable organizations in Israel that may interest people in the movement. In addition, it seeks to identify ways that congregations, rabbis, and individuals across the movement can connect with these organizations if they wish.
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: December 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-december-2024/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: December 2024 December 27-28 Read: Illuminating the World with Kindness Rabbi Lily Solochek teaches that, sometimes, small acts of courage and kindness matter more than heroic deeds from storybooks. Sourced from Reconstructing Judaism Read: What is Hanukkah? Rabbi Ben Weiner asks how can we understand Hanukkah during a time of war
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: November 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-november-2024/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: November 2024 November 29-30 Read: Gratitude and Hospitality Rabbi Sandra Lawson discusses Thanksgiving from a Reconstructionist and contemporary perspective. Sourced from Reconstructing Judaism Read: Who’s Everybody? The Reconstructionist prayerbook reprints this classic New Yorker story about an immigrant home and one girl’s desire for an authentic, American Thanksgiving. Sourced from Reconstructing
- [World Zionist Congress](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/world-zionist-congress/) - Vote for Hatikvah in the World Zionist Congress Elections Reconstructing Judaism endorses Hatikvah: Progressive Israel Slate. Hatikvah champions democracy, equality, and justice — values that inspire our movement's vision for Israel. Vote Here Now Between March 10-May 4, American Jews will vote for their delegates to the 39th World Zionist Congress. Vote to have your voice
- [Yom Ha'Atzma'ut and Yom HaZikaron](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/yom-haatzmaut-and-yom-hazikaron/) - Yom HaZikaron, Israeli Memorial Day, for those who have fallen in the defense of the nation, was originally observed only in the State of Israel, but the day has come to be marked in other places as well. In Israel, where there is near-universal military service, the day evokes particularly powerful emotions because almost everyone
- [Yom Hasho'ah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/yom-hashoah/) - Yom Hasho’ah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) is the solemn commemoration day that recalls the horrific losses during the Holocaust. The murder of 6 million Jews is the most traumatic event in recent Jewish history. While we should never forget that Jews were not the only targets of Nazi genocide — the Roma people, homosexuals and the Nazi’s
- [Harmoniyah - 2025 Update](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/harmoniyah/) - Reconstructionist Music Project & Harmoniyah Collective Archives Welcome to the 2025 Reconstructionist Music Project and Harmoniyah Collective Archives! The Harmoniyah Collective was a music collective affiliated with the Reconstructionist movement that was active in the early aughts. With the generosity of the founding members of Harmoniyah and members of the RRC Class of 1997, we were
- [Harmoniyah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/harmoniyah-orig/) - Welcome to the Harmoniyah Collective. This archive contains text files with lyrics, sound files, links to recordings, and sheet music of selected works from the Harmoniyah Collective of Reconstructing Judaism which was active in the early aughts. Selections are listed alphabetically by title. We encourage you to browse. Title Artist Primary file Additional file 1
- [The Plenum: Purpose and Membership](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/the-plenum/) - The Plenum: Purpose and Membership The Plenum of Reconstructing Judaism is a vital forum for affiliated congregations and havurot, to voice their perspectives, discuss pressing issues affecting both the movement and the broader world, and help shape the future of Reconstructing Judaism. Through thoughtful dialogue and voting on key matters, Plenum members ensure that their
- [Magid | Telling the Story](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/magid/)
- [Virtual Purim Box](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/purim-box/) - Virtual Purim Box Your Virtual Purim Box holds many ways to celebrate the holiday. Choose what nurtures you. Listen, watch or read. March 13-14. March 14-15 Read: A Vital Resource Reaches a Milestone Learn about the Virtual Shabbat Box’s origins. While the world has changed over the past five years, these weekly resources continue to
- [Annual Reports](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/annual-reports/) - Annual Reports Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report Detailed Report with Financials & Donor Listing Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Report Detailed Report with Financials & Donor Listing Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Report Detailed Report with Financials & Donor Listing Fiscal Year 2021 Annual Report Detailed Report with Financials & Donor Listing Fiscal Year 2020 Annual Report
- [Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/annual-reports/fy2024-annual-report/) - Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report Your browser does not seem to support iframes. Click here to read this PDF. Download the 2024 Annual Report Assets FY24 Cash & Equivalents $3,565,853 Accounts Receivable, Pledges Receivable and Other Assets $1,213,352 Beneficial Interest in Trusts $1,334,544 Investments – Operating Funds (Including Restricted Funds) $1,685,008 – Endowment Funds $14,821,704
- [Contact Us](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/staff-directory-2/) - Contact Us To reach our staff, please email us at Shalom@ReconstructingJudaism.org
- [Leadership](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-2/) - Leadership To reach out to our administration/leadership team, please email us at OfficeofthePresident@ReconstructingJudaism.org.
- [Joint Israel Commission](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/israel/joint-israel-commission-2/) - The Joint Israel Commission (JIC) is comprised of 11 lay people, five rabbis, one RRC faculty member, and one RRC student. The JIC reports to the boards of the two organizational arms of the movement – Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA). The JIC’s co-chairs are Fred Andes of Shir Hadash (Wheeling, Ill.,
- [Tu B'Shvat](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/tu-bshvat/) - Tu B'Shvat Happy New Year…trees. In Jewish tradition, Tu B’Shvat — which falls smack in the middle of the North American winter — is known as the New Year for trees. Want to know the basics of the holiday? Explore its mystical elements? Learn about how it has resonated with the modern environmental movement and
- [Mission, Vision and Values](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/mission-vision-and-values/) - Mission, Vision and Values Mission Reconstructing Judaism cultivates, provokes and inspires a deeply rooted, boldly relevant and co-created Judaism that provides individuals and communities with tools to lead lives of meaning and joy. Vision Diverse, connected and engaged Judaism that meaningfully contributes to a just and compassionate world. Values We strive to realize these core values
- [For Prospective Affiliates](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/prospective-affiliates/) - For Prospective Affiliates Direct and Personal Staff Support Affiliated congregations and havurot can draw on the expertise of the Reconstructionist movement, whether through staff and faculty of Reconstructing Judaism or networks of our congregational leaders. Each affiliated community has a designated liaison on the Thriving Communities team, and we advise on everything from curriculum development
- [Honoring Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King Jr.](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/mlk/) - The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. harnessed his profound religious commitments and belief in the promise of American democracy to inspire millions. While he is remembered as a national hero today, his message was more complicated and radical than is often remembered: his opposition to racism, poverty and war deeply intertwined. Reckoning with racism’s legacy
- [Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/tikkun-olam/justice-equity-diversity-and-inclusion/) - Mission The Thriving Communities JEDI team supports Reconstructionist congregations and havurot’s efforts to build pathways towards meaning and joy by helping them become more just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive. We do so by connecting our communities with tools, resources, and fellow communities devoted to this sacred striving. Vision We believe Reconstructionist Judaism meaningfully contributes to
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: October 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-october-2024/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: October 2024 October 11-12 Read: Turning Earthward for Yom Kippur Rabbi Asher Sofman writes about what each of us can do to facilitate the nourishment and growth of every part of Creation. Sourced from Reconstructing Judaism Watch: Favorite Name for God Rabbi Daria Jacobs-Velde describes, in advance of the High Holidays,
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: September 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-september-2024/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: September 2024 September 6-7 Read: Souls Have a Way of Living On Rabbi Shelly Barnathan’s poetic words of condolence to mourners speak powerfully to this raw moment. Sourced from Ritualwell Read: Mussar and Poetry as a Response to Loss In this piece, developed in a Ritualwell Mussar poetry workshop, Bryan Schwartzman
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: August 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-august-2024/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: August 2024 August 9-10 Read: Processing Communal Grief Rabbi Lily Solochek writes about how Tisha B’Av can help us find strength in one another. Sourced from Reconstructing Judaism Read: Tisha B’Av, A History This excerpt from “The Guide to Jewish Practice, Volume 2” outlines the history of this most solemn of
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: July 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-july-2024/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: July 2024 July 12-13 Read: Calling for Equitable Jewish Communities Rabbi Asher Sofman argues that, by pursuing diversity, equity and inclusion, congregations can be addresses for “shared experiences, shared relationships, shared practices, stories” and “the foundation for shared living.” Sourced from Reconstructing Judaism Watch and Read: 57 Shabbirthdays In these videos
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: June 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-june-2024/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: June 2024 June 7-8 Explore: DIY Tikkun Leil Shavuot Want to continue learning Torah after your community’s tikkun or without leaving home? We’ve specially curated hours of digital resources to learn on your own or with a group. Sourced from Reconstructing Judaism Read: A Reconstructionist Approach to Shavuot How do Reconstructionists
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: May 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-may-2024/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: May 2024 May 3-4 Listen: Yom Ha’shoah on the Hashivenu Podcast Rabbi Phillip Lazowski, who survived the Holocaust as a child, shares about the experiences that have shaped his vision and sense of purpose. Sourced from Hashivenu: Jewish Teachings on Resilience Read: Second Generation In this powerful poem, Anne R.Z. Schulman,
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: April 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-april-2024/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: April 2024 April 5-6 Read: I am Yocheved The mother of Moses, Aaron and Miriam isn’t given much character development in Exodus. Here, Rabbi Sonja K. Pilz’s stirring poem imagines Yocheved’s voice in its full power and complexity. Sourced from Ritualwell Read: Hamotzi With Passover approaching, it’s the perfect time for
- [Ritual Resources](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reparations-shabbat/ritual-resources/) - These resources are designed to help you plan services and adult education sessions over the Reparations Shabbat weekend: Text Studies Readings & Prayers Sermon Starters Guide to Sharing Your Pulpit with a Guest Speaker (coming soon) New Ritual for Aleynu Text Studies Text study can ground your Reparations Shabbat in familiar Jewish thought and values.
- [An Invitation to Congregations Outside the U.S. to Participate in the Reparations Shabbaton](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reparations-shabbat/an-invitation-to-congregations-outside-the-u-s-to-participate-in-the-reparations-shabbaton/) - Dear congregants and congregational affiliates outside the US: We are a minority within a small denomination; we are the Reconstructionists located in Canada (Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto); Italy (Serrastretta); The Netherlands (Delft); Curaçao (Willemstad); Brazil (Ijuí); Germany (Wiesbaden). I want to invite you to participate in the events and offerings of the Reparations Shabbat weekend. This
- [Reparations Movies and Discussion Guides](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reparations-shabbat/reparations-movies-and-discussion-guides/) - Reparations Movies Resource Guide Created by the Tikkun Olam Commission for Reparations Shabbat weekend 5785 The Reparations Movies Resource Guide is a guide to four different documentaries, videos, and films that present community histories, testimonies, sermons, and personal journeys that explore harm caused to communities and individuals and, in some cases, the reckoning to repair
- [Sample Weekend Itineraries](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reparations-shabbat/sample-weekend-itineraries/) - Seeking inspiration for your community’s Reparations Shabbat programming? Take a look at these sample weekend itineraries for congregations in different time zones, and pick and choose what offerings are right-sized for your people. Whether your community would relish a full-weekend shabbaton to engage with reparations or offers one or two of the suggested programs, participating
- [Kindling the Light](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/kindling-the-light/) - Kindling the Light Please enjoy a bit of inspiration from the RRC Music Collective, a wonderful, dynamic group of rabbinical students who give sound to their spirit. support our rabbinical students through the momentum campaign
- [Disability Torah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/disability-and-accessibility/disability-torah-2/) - Connect Jewish texts and Disability Justice work with these text studies and essays.
- [Resource Materials for Congregational Leaders](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/resource-materials-for-congregational-leaders/) - Resource Materials for Congregational Leaders On this page, you can find resources on several topics to help your congregation or havurah. These resources will be updated on an ongoing basis, so be sure to revisit this page periodically for updates. If you would like to suggest an item or locate a particular resource, please reach
- [Israel Covening Event Test](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/israel-covening-event-test/) - Israel Convening Schedule This schedule is still in the works and is subject to change. 1-2:30 p.m. EST Opening Plenary Moderated by Rabbi Barbara Penzner, Interim CEO Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, the panelists will reflect on their personal journeys as Reconstructionists and their hopes for the future of Israelis and Palestinians. Speakers will include: Rabbi Deborah
- [Jewish Families and Reproductive Justice](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/jewish-families-and-reproductive-justice/) - What does Jewish tradition say about abortion rights and reproductive justice? What does the Dobbs v. Jackson decision mean for access to basic reproductive hea
- [Commissioned Artwork on Reparations](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reparations/commissioned-artwork/) - Commissioned Artwork on Reparations Reconstructing Judaism recently commissioned two black Jewish artists from within our circles, Ayeola Omomara Kaplan, and Marjorie Salvodon, to respond to the Movement Wide Day of Learning on Reparations through a piece of visual art. Reconstructionists understand Judaism to be the Evolving Civilization of the Jewish people. Art is just as
- [Reparations Shabbat K-12 Lesson Plans](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reparations-shabbat/collective-teshuva-lesson-plans/) - In this curriculum created by Rabbi Lily Solochek, Director of the Wenger-Markowitz Family Education Initiative, students will explore Jewish texts and values in connection to reparations, understanding collective teshuva, and how we are all responsible for one another. Grade(s): K-12thNumber of participants: AnyTime needed: 60-75 minutes Access the Collective Teshuva curriculum on Canva or download
- [Thanksgiving: A Day of Gratitude](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/thanksgiving/) - Jewish practice cultivates gratitude for the food we eat, the experiences we encounter, the bonds and relationships that make our lives worth living. Thanksgiving — among the most widely observed American public holidays — is a day devoted to gratitude. Reconstructionists teach that Jews live in multiple civilizations and, though a secular holiday, Thanksgiving has
- [The Whizin Prize Essays](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/whizin-prize-essays/) - Established by Bruce Whizin, z"l, the Whizin Prize has honored fresh thinking on issues of contemporary Jewish ethics for twenty years. Here is our archive of winning essays by rabbinical and graduate students. Whizin Prize Essays 2024 Whizin Prize Winners: So that One’s Soul Be Tranquil: A Jewish Definition of Health and Gender-Affirming Care By
- [Jewish Time: Shabbat and Holidays](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/)
- [Reparations Shabbat Text Studies](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reparations-shabbat-text-studies/) - Text study can ground your Reparations Shabbat in familiar Jewish thought and values. We invite you to explore this collection of text study sheets for one that speaks to you and your community. Setting the Table; from the Reconstructionist Day of Learning on Reparations (2022) Teshuva on Stolen Land; from the Reconstructionist Day of Learning on Reparations
- [Reparations Shabbat Sermon Starters](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reparations-shabbat-sermon-starters/) - The collected sermons, drashot, and articles below can serve as inspiration for your own reparations-inspired divrei torah on Reparations Shabbat. The summaries were written by Rafael Morris, Reconstructing Judaism’s Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Rabbinic Intern. Our Country Was Built on a Stolen Beam: The Call for a National Reckoning (Rabbi Sharon Brous, Rosh Hashanah Sermon
- [Virtual Sukkot & Simchat Torah Box](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/sukkot-simchat-torah-box/) - Virtual Sukkot & Simchat Torah Box Your Virtual Sukkot/Simhat Torah Box holds many ways to celebrate the holiday. Choose what nurtures you. Listen, watch or read. (Sukkot, October 16-23; Sh’mini Atzeret/Simchat Torah, October 24-25) October 24-25 Read: Torah’s Ending and Beginning Elsie Stern, Ph.D., unpacks what she describes as the downright strangeness of Torah’s conclusion
- [Virtual High Holiday Box](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/high-holiday-box/) - Virtual High Holiday Box Your Virtual Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kippur Box holds many ways to celebrate the holiday. Choose what nurtures you. Listen, watch or read. (Rosh Hashanah, Oct. 3-5; Yom Kippur, Oct. 11-12) October 11-12 Read: Turning Earthward for Yom Kippur Rabbi Asher Sofman writes about what each of us can do to facilitate the
- [Remembering October 7](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/remembering-october-7/) - The Reconstructionist community joins with Jews and people throughout the world in remembering the still fresh, heartbreaking Hamas attack of Oct. 7, 2023. We are united in our grief and anguish and hope for the safe return of hostages and an end to the conflagration so people on all sides can safely return to their
- [Beyond Religion](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/beyond-religion/) - Beyond Religion As the very definition of Reconstructionism suggests, being religious is not the only way to be Jewish. For many people, a commitment to tikkun olam, to repairing the world, is a primary way they enact their Jewishness. Others explore and express their Jewishness through cultural activities, a practice that Reconstructionism has long affirmed.
- [Tikkun Olam: Resources for Action](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/tikkun-olam/tikkun-olam-resources-for-action/) - Reconstructing Judaism encourages you to study the following list of resources and partner organizations. We recommend them as helpful, values-aligned, and impactful pathways to action for tikkun olam on some of the most pressing social and political issues of our day.
- [Coalitions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/tikkun-olam/coalitions/) - Reconstructing Judaism is proud to serve as a member of the following coalitions: THRIVE: Jewish Coalition to Defend Trans and LGBTQ Youth Jewish Abortion Access Coalition Jewish Rohingya Justice Network Poor People’s Campaign Jewish Coalition for Disaster Relief Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition A More Perfect Union: The Jewish Partnership for Democracy
- [A Calendar Year of Tikkun Olam](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/tikkun-olam/a-calendar-year-of-tikkun-olam/) - The festivals bring us into contact with the great human themes of food, shelter, and security; birth, growth, and death; freedom and responsibility; the earthly and the transcendent. The Jewish Holidays, by Rabbi Michael Strassfeld As citizens of multiple civilizations, many Reconstructionists observe holidays that are both “sacred” and “secular.” In addition to the timeless
- [Education Curricula](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/tikkun-olam/education-curricula/) - Youth “Tu Bishvat: Building Sustainable Communities” is a 75-minute curriculum designed by Rabbi Lily Solochek, Director of the Wenger‑Markowitz Family Education Initiative. Teach your children about community building, sustainability, and the challenges of environmental racism, and inspire them with stories of young activists fighting the climate crisis. This program is available in three versions for
- [Experimentation and Innovation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/experimentation-and-innovation/) - Proud Legacy of Reconstructionist “Firsts” From our very beginning, Reconstructionists have experimented tirelessly with ideas, practices and institutions. In spite of our small size, we have contributed innovations that have been widely adopted. They include: First bat mitzvah Concept of Jewish peoplehood Understanding that Jews who married non-Jews do not intend to exit the Jewish
- [Evolving Religious Civilization](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/evolving-religious-civilization/) - Nearly a century ago, Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan, Reconstructionism’s founding thinker, famously described Judaism as “the evolving religious civilization of the Jewish people.” In this short video, Rabbi Sandra Lawson explains what that means and why this framing continues to guide us today. What we mean by “civilization” The religion of Judaism is centrally important and it is not
- [Peoplehood and Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/peoplehood-and-community/) - Diversity and Interconnection In the 1940s, Reconstructionist leaders coined the term “peoplehood” to capture the diversity of the Jewish people and our experiences across time and place. For Reconstructionists, positive feelings about belonging to the Jewish people are only a start; being Jewish is a means to living a deeply interconnected life and to increasing wisdom
- [Reconstructionism as an Approach](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reconstructionism/) - Deeply Rooted, Boldly Relevant Reconstructionists approach Judaism—and life—with deep consideration of the past and a passion to relate it to the present. Applying our understanding of Judaism as the evolving religious civilization of the Jewish people, we draw from the rich wellsprings of Jewish tradition to face the challenges and opportunities of the current moment.
- [Jewish Ethics and Reproductive Justice](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/jewish-ethics-and-reproductive-justice/) - What does Jewish tradition say about abortion rights and reproductive justice? What does the Dobbs v. Jackson decision mean for access to basic reproductive hea
- [The Auerbach Entrepreneurial & Reconstructionist Incubator Grants](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/grants/) - The Auerbach Entrepreneurial Grant Program at Reconstructing Judaism supports rabbinical students in creating bold experiments. The goal is to reconstruct Jewish experiences, increase access and meaning, encourage forward-thinking growth in the Jewish community and explore the connection between the 21st Century environment and traditional Jewish values. Ignition Grants Students currently enrolled at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College (RRC) can apply
- [Key Resources including Special Post-Oct 7 Resources](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/israel/more-israel-resources/) - Key Resources including Special Post-Oct 7 Resources Post-October 7 Special Resources Shared Values and Multiple Opinions: Reconstructionist Congregations and the Israel-Hamas WarDec. 2023 90-min webinar recording led by Rabbi Maurice Harris, Israel Affairs Specialist offering an overview of how personal opinions and feelings have ranged across our congregations since the war began, and how despite
- [Key Israel Resolutions and Reports: The Reconstructionist Movement, Israel and Zionism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/israel/key-israel-resolutions-statements-and-reports-the-reconstructionist-movement-israel-and-zionism/) - Key Israel Resolutions and Reports: The Reconstructionist Movement, Israel and Zionism There have been several different central organizations of the Reconstructionist movement, some representing associations of Reconstructionist rabbis or congregations, and more recently, the organization known as Reconstructing Judaism, which combines the rabbinical seminary (RRC) with the non-profit association of congregations affiliated with the movement.
- [Home - copy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/home-2/) - Reconstructing Judaism: the central organization of the groundbreaking, always-evolving Reconstructionist movement. We help build thriving Jewish communities, empower individuals to lead lives of deeper meaning and purpose, train rabbis who make a difference, and work to bring about a more just and sustainable world.
- [Home - copy2](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/home-3/) - Reconstructing Judaism: the central organization of the groundbreaking, always-evolving Reconstructionist movement. We help build thriving Jewish communities, empower individuals to lead lives of deeper meaning and purpose, train rabbis who make a difference, and work to bring about a more just and sustainable world.
- [Voices of Movement Leaders](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/voices-of-movement-leaders/) - Voices of Movement Leaders K’doshim and our Ethical Commitments May 10, 2024 | Rabbi Alex Weissman Every week, Rabbi Alex Weissman, director of Mekhinah, and cultural and spiritual life at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, emails members of the college community with words of Torah. Here’s his email from May 10, 2024. Read More » A
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: March 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-march-2024/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: March 2024 March 1-2 Watch: Billboard Blues Poet Darcy Graberstein describes how a billboard on a New Jersey highway brought emotions to the surface regarding October 7 and the hostages remaining in Gaza. And she provides a writing prompt: How are you filling your void, right now? Sourced from Reconstructing Judaism
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: February 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-february-2024/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: February 2024 February 2-3 Watch: The World of October 7 and After Karen Webber, a poet and performance artist, enacts and, at times, sings, two linked poems, “No Cakewalk” and “L’chaim” that mine the emotional depths, describing horror with pinpoint detail and, somehow, bringing us back to the light with a
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: January 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-january-2024/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: January 2024 January 5-6 Read: Kaplan, Choseness and Us Rabbi Toba Spitzer examines a core teaching of Reconstructionist Judaism, the rejection of the idea of Jews as the chosen people and explains why it’s more relevant than ever. Sourced from Evolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations Listen: The Full Tapestry of Human Experience
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: December 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-december-2023/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: December 2023 December 1-2 Read: Who Frees the Captive Martha Hurwitz’s stunning poem evokes the liturgy of the High Holidays in asking how and why some captives are freed while others remain, investigating, agony of weighing one life against another.” Sourced from Ritualwell Watch: Fried Feast Add a new dish to
- [When Jewish Women Lead: Activating People & Possibilities through Turbulent Times](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/when-jewish-women-lead-activating-people-possibilities-through-turbulent-times/) - Join Rabbi Deborah Waxman and fellow leaders Cheryl Cook, CEO of Avodah; Cindy Greenberg, CEO of Repair the World; and Ilana Aisen, CEO of JPro, on Wednesday, April 3 at 7 p.m. EDT | 6 p.m. CDT | 5 p.m. MDT | 4 p.m. PDT for this special one-hour virtual event, also featuring Seth L.
- [Disability and Accessibility](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/disability-and-accessibility/) - The resources are curated to support your community’s commitments to disability justice, which will help you enable full participation in your spaces for all people.
- [Audio Clips of High Holy Day Prayers](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/highholydays/) - Audio clips of the Reconstructionist liturgy for the High Holiday services. Rabbi Alan LaPayover, ’02, recorded the prayers.
- [Motzi Matzah | Eating Matzah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/motzi-matzah/)
- [Kadesh | Sanctification](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/kadesh/)
- [Preparation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/preparation/)
- [Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Report](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/annual-reports/fy2023-annual-report/) - Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Report Your browser does not seem to support iframes. Click here to read this PDF. Download the 2023 Annual Report Assets FY23 Cash & Equivalents $4,431,215 Accounts Receivable, Pledges Receivable and Other Assets $2,161,645 Beneficial Interest in Trusts $1,238,457 Investments – Operating Funds (Including Restricted Funds) $1,885,158 – Endowment Funds
- [The Aviv Revolving Loan Fund](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/aviv-loans/) - The Aviv Revolving Loan Fund What are Aviv loans and who can apply? The Aviv Revolving Loan Fund supports growth and vitality in the Reconstructionist movement. Aviv means “spring” in Hebrew, and this fund was established through the generosity of anonymous donors to promote fresh, energizing initiatives. Congregations and havurot affiliated with Reconstructing Judaism at
- [Statements from Reconstructing Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/statements-from-reconstructing-judaism/) - Reconstructing Judaism joins Progressive Israel Network organizations in Letter to Biden March 5, 2024 Reconstructing Judaism joins multiple organizations affiliated with the Progressive Israel Network in signing on to a public letter to President Biden at this critical moment in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Continue reading Progressive Israel Network Statement on the Crisis in Israel
- [Connecting](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/disability-and-accessibility/connecting-2/) - Connect together to learn more about disability.
- [History and Advocacy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/disability-and-accessibility/history-and-advocacy/) - Learn the history of Jewish advocacy for disability justice work and join with us in advocating for DEI in your community.
- [Speakers and Educators](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/disability-and-accessibility/speakers-and-educators/) - Looking for an expert to work with your community?
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: November 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-november-2023/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: November 2023 November 24-25 Watch: My Own Thinking Heart Rabbi Haviva Ner-David, author and peace activist who lives in Israel’s Galilee region, shares the pain she feels as well as her unwavering commitment to peace. She reads a poem dedicated to Canadian-Israeli peace activist Vivian Silver, who was slain on October
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: October 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-october-2023/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: October 2023 October 27-28 Watch: Israel on Our Hearts Poet Cathy Cohen reads “Mirrors,” offering “shards of light” and reaffirmation against the background of grief and worry. Sourced from Ritualwell Read: Communal Tragedy Since Oct. 27, Ritualwell has posted more than 40 poems and prayers expressing a staggering range of human
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: September 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-september-2023/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: September 2023 September 1-2 Listen: Making Your Soul a Vessel for Change Rabbi Nathan Kamesar discusses how we can make the most of the High Holidays. Sourced from Evolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations Listen: The Magic of the Shofar With this guided teaching, anyone — whether you can blow a shofar beautifully
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: July 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-july-2023/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: July 2023 July 28-29 Explore: Mourning Destruction We’ve gathered an array of Reconstructionist resources from our network of websites to help you search for meaning on this solemn day, the Ninth of Av. Listen: Reconstructionist Jews and the Struggle Over Israel’s Future Confused and angered by the push to weaken Israel’s
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: June 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-june-2023/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: June 2023 June 30-July 1 Listen: How to Talk with Kids About Race A psychologist/scholar shares her research into Jewish families, as well as her personal experiences as a parent of biracial children. Sourced from Evolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations Read: Prayer for Our Country On the eve of American Independence Day,
- [Harmoniyah Archive](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/harmoniyah-archive/) - This page is home for material of use to Reconstructionist affiliates and their leadership. Additional resources are being added on an ongoing basis. Let us know what you’d like to see! Congregational Resources – home About the Thriving Communities Department Affiliation and Dues Educator’s Hub Inclusivity Resources Israel Leadership Resource Library Placement The Plenum Prospective Affiliates
- [Sukkot - old](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/sukkot-old/) - You are here Home / Act / Act / Jewish Time: Shabbat and Holidays / Sukkot Sukkot Five days after the end of Yom Kippur, the festival of Sukkot begins. Sukkot is a weeklong holiday dedicated to bringing worship outside, literally, and it can be understood as our opportunity to face the world anew after
- [Train the Trainer Cohort](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/train-the-trainer-cohort/) - Train the Trainer Cohort - Race, Religion and American Judaism The Center for Jewish Ethics recently launched a groundbreaking curriculum that utilizes the study of Jewish history, experience, and ethics to illuminate the problem of racism and lay a foundation for positive change. We think this program is an excellent congregational resource for growing the knowledge
- [Rabbinic Campaign for the Reconstructionist Movement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/rabbinic-campaign/)
- [High Holidays Collection for 2023/5784](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/high-holidays-collection-for-2023-5784/) - High Holidays Collection for 2023/5784 In order to support Jewish communities exploring models of High Holidays programming, we are pleased to make these materials available to you. Mahzor Resources Additional Liturgical Offerings Prior Video Teachings Resources from Reconstructionist Congregations and Rabbis Liturgy Recordings Sustain Reconstructing Judaism
- [Additional Liturgical Offerings for High Holidays](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/high-holidays-collection-for-2023-5784/new-liturgy-offerings/)
- [Yom Kippur - old](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/high-holidays-old/yom-kippur/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: May 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-may-2023/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: May 2023 May 26-27 Read: Climbing the Golden Mountain Rabbi Janine Jankovitz writes of the spiritual journey to Mount Sinai and how each of us is prepared to receive the Torah anew, just the way we are. Sourced from Reconstructing Judaism Watch, Cook, Eat: Milk & Honey Torah Roll Cake Follow
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: April 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-april-2023/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: April 2023 March 31-April 1 Read: The Passover Seder Awaits … Rabbi Jonathan Kligler writes how, on Passover, spiritual and political themes come into sublime and powerful alignment. Sourced from Reconstructing Judaism Listen: Passover (and Judaism) Disrupted In this podcast, Rabbi Michael Strassfeld says it’s time to reimagine the Seder and Shabbat
- [20s & 30s Jewish Communal Experiences Survey](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/20s-30s-jewish-communal-experiences-survey/) - We're looking into how folks in their 20's & 30's today engage with Reconstructionism. We need your help by completing this survey.
- [Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/positions-by-topic/israel/) - Israel A Prayer in this Time of Crisis October 1, 2024 On hearing the news of Iran's attack on Israel as we approach Erev Rosh Hashanah, Rabbi Maurice Harris wrote the following prayer. Read More In response to Iran’s attack on Israel April 14, 2024 Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA) are deeply
- [Ethical Leadership in the Public Square](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/public-square/) - Study Resources The Torah of #MeToo The #MeToo movement calls for a new kind of ethical guidance that reimagines authority and expertise. Below, we curate ethical questions and responses from victims/survivors and contemporary leaders, as well as from the Jewish ethical tradition. Respect and Responsibility: A Jewish Ethics Study Guide Respect and Responsibility: A Jewish
- [Reckoning Together](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reckoning-together/) - In March 2023, 200 people — including Jews of Color and Jews identifying as White — sang, prayed & learned together at key civil rights sites in the South.
- [Shavuot](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/jewish-time-shabbat-and-holidays/shavuot-old/)
- [Racial Justice](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/racial-justice/) - Racial Justice B’tzelem Elohim Fighting for racial justice is a top priority for Reconstructing Judaism and is a natural extension of our Jewish values. The Torah’s very first and most central description of human beings is that we are all created b’tzelem Elohim — equally and uniquely in the image of God. This theology was radical in
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: March 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-march-2023/) - March 31-April 1 Read: The Passover Seder Awaits … Rabbi Jonathan Kligler writes how, on Passover, spiritual and political themes come into sublime and powerful alignment. Sourced from Reconstructing Judaism Listen: Passover (and Judaism) Disrupted In this podcast, Rabbi Michael Strassfeld says it’s time to reimagine the Seder and Shabbat services. Sourced from Evolve: Groundbreaking Jewish
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: September 2020](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/september-2020/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: October 2020](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/october-2020/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: November 2021](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-november-2021/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: October 2021](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-october-2021/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: September 2022](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-september-2022/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: September 2022 September 16-17 Read: ‘The Pause That Re-Nefeshes’ Leslea Haravon Collins’s poem plays on the phrase re-nefesh (to “re-ensoul”), coined by Alan Lew in his book, This Is Real and You Are Completely Unprepared. Sourced from Ritualwell Read: ‘Pre-High Holy Days Immersion Ceremony’ There is a Jewish tradition of immersing
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: October 2022](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-october-2022/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: October 2022 October 28-29 Read: ‘A Prayer for Creation’ While appropriate at all times, this prayer by Rabbi David Mevorach Seidenberg is particularly suitable during the week that the Torah portion chapters about Noah are read. Watch: ‘Jewish Teachings on Resilience’ On Shabbat Sukkot, 5783, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, president and CEO
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: November 2022](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-november-2022/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: November 2022 November 25-26 Watch: ‘Sim Shalom/Oseh Shalom’ Performed by Dr. Koach Baruch Frazier and Marques Hollie for “Reconstructing the Voice of Leadership: A Day of Giving to Support Jews of Color.” Sourced from Reconstructing Judaism Read: ‘Dreaming It Up’ Terry Boyle’s poem takes off on Jacob’s dream of angels ascending
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: March 2020](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/march-2020/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: May 2020](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/may-2020/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: November 2020](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/november-2020/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: March 2021](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/march-2021/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: May 2021](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/may-2021/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: March 2022](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-march-2022/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: March 2022 March 25-26 Read: ‘Let No Soul Be Forgotten: Vigil Prayer Marking Two Years of COVID’ We have lived with this worldwide pandemic for two years. Rabbi Annie Lewis marks this milestone with a prayer. Sourced from Ritualwell Read: ‘Babi Yar ‘22’ Some of the complexities of our history
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: May 2022](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-may-2022/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: May 2022 May 27-28 Read: ‘At My Kid’s Gymnastics Class I Read the News from Texas’ In this poem, Hila Ratzabi shares the grief and horror of learning about the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. Sourced from Ritualwell Read: ‘Response to Buffalo Shooting’ The leaders of Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: June 2022](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-june-2022/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: June 2022 June 24-25 Read: ‘Tomorrow’ With Steve Pollack’s poem, we enter Shabbat centering ourselves in the present and refreshing ourselves so we may face a new tomorrow. Sourced from Ritualwell Watch: ‘Inclusion is a Bagel’ Inclusion is a core principle of Reconstructing Judaism, and the Reconstructionist movement has a 100-year
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: June 2020](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/june-2020/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: July 2020](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/july-2020/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: January 2021](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/january-2021/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: June 2021](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/june-2021/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: July 2021](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/july-2021/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: January 2022](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-january-2022/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: July 2022](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-july-2022/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: July 2022 July 29-30 Read: ‘Communal Blessing for the Children’ Martha Hurwitz created this prayer as a member of a very small synagogue with just a few children. Most of the parents seemed uncomfortable when the rabbi initiated a ritual for them to bless their children, so she thought it would
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: January 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-january-2023/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: January 2023 January 27-28 Watch: A Video Poem for Your Tu B’Shvat Seder Poet Hila Ritzabi, who leads Ritualwell.org, offers a little Tu B’Shvat 101 and then steps into the great outdoors to recite a powerful poem about climate change and the redemptive power of nature. It is sure to enhance
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: February 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-february-2023/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: February 2023 February 24-25 Read: Writing Your Own Megillah Rabbinical student Stephanie Breitsman shares how learning sofrut (scribal arts), and writing her own Megillat Esther, is deepening her relationship to our sacred literature. Sourced from Evolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations Read: Black and Jewish Community-Building Participants in a pilgrimage for Black Reconstructionists
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: August 2020](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/august-2020/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: December 2020](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/december-2020/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: February 2021](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/february-2021/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: April 2021](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/april-2021/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: December 2021](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-december-2021/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: February 2022](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-february-2022/)
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: April 2022](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-april-2022/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: April 2022 April 29-30 Read: A Prayer for Yom Hashoah With Rabbi David Katz’s prayer, we mark Holocaust Remembrance Day (April 28) and remember all who perished in the Shoah. Sourced from Ritualwell Watch: Esa Eynay in ASL: I Will Lift Up My Eyes Rabbi Darby Jared Leigh and Rabbi Roni Handler demonstrate the
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: August 2022](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-august-2022/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: August 2022 August 12-13 Read: ‘Alchemy of Blessing’ Janice Steinberg wrote this blessing influenced by a book by psychologist Miriam Greenspan about the alchemy of Healing Through the Dark Emotions. She asks, “How do we get in the mud with the ‘oogy’ feelings and find the treasure?” Sourced from Ritualwell Read:
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: December 2022](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/virtual-shabbat-box-archives-december-2022/) - Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: December 2022 December 30-31 Read/Watch: ‘Deconstructing Racism to Reconstruct Judaism: The Story of a ‘Life-Giving’ Pilgrimage to the South’ Bryan Schwartzman reports on the pilgrimage to the South for Jews of African descent who serve as leaders of the Reconstructionist movement. Participants were able to engage in healing work and visit
- [Virtual Shabbat Box Archives: April 2020](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/shabbat-box/april-2020/)
- [Jewish Ethics and Covid-19](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/public-square/coronavirus/) - Jewish Ethics and Covid-19 The Covid-19 pandemic confronted Jewish communities and organizations with pressing ethical questions. We developed this guide to values-based decision making to help communities and individuals navigate the unprecedented times we were living in. This guide collects and curates sources from the Jewish ethical tradition and insights from today’s leading ethical thinkers.
- [The Torah of #MeToo](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/projects/torah-metoo/) - Respect and Responsibility: A Jewish Ethics Study Guide is a cross-denominational collection of study texts to support Jewish organizations in cultivating cultures of safety and respect. We were proud to partner with Sacred Spaces to develop this resource, which can be found here. The Torah of #MeToo The #MeToo movement calls for a new kind
- [Virtual Passover Box](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/) - Brought to you by Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association.§ In every generation a person must regard themselves as though they personally had gone out of Egypt, as it is said: “And you shall tell your children in that day, saying: ‘It is because of what the Eternal did for me when I came forth out of
- [Divrei Torah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/divrei-torah/)
- [Yahatz | Break the Middle Matzah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/yahatz/)
- [Urchatz | Hand Washing](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/urchatz/)
- [Tzafun | Eating the Afikomen](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/tzafun/)
- [Shulkhan Orekh | The Seder Meal    ​​​​​​​](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/shulkhan-orekh/)
- [Rohtzah | Hand Washing](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/rohtzah/)
- [Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Report](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/annual-reports/fy2022-annual-report/) - Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Report Your browser does not seem to support iframes. Click here to read this PDF. Download the 2022 Annual Report Assets FY22 Cash & Equivalents $5,247,584 Accounts Receivable, Pledges Receivable and Other Assets $1,438,998 Beneficial Interest in Trusts $1,283,567 Investments – Operating Funds (Including Restricted Funds) $1,827,747 – Endowment Funds $13,266,827
- [Make your impact this Passover.](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/make-your-impact-this-passover/) - Make your impact this Passover. This Passover, support your rooted and relevant community. Your gift powers work that honors sacred listening, values-based speaking, and choosing Judaism in the face of rising antisemitism. Thank you. All contributions to Reconstructing Judaism are tax deductible as permitted by law. Reconstructing Judaism’s tax ID number is 23-1710675. Please note:
- [About Us](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/about-us/)
- [Antisemitism and Israel-related Speech: a Resource Guide for Reconstructionist Communities](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/antisemitism-and-israel-related-speech/) - Antisemitism and Israel-related Speech: a Resource Guide for Reconstructionist Communities There is a lot of debate in the Jewish world today regarding the question of when Israel-related speech crosses the line into antisemitism. These debates are likely to increase in the coming years, resurfacing as flashpoints on university campuses, in political campaigns, and in media
- [Fiscal Year 2021 Annual Report](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/annual-reports/fy2021-annual-report/) - Fiscal Year 2021 Annual Report Assets FY21 Cash and Equivalents $5,254,310 Accounts Receivable, Pledges Receivable and Other Assets $1,546,776 Beneficial Interest in Trusts $1,688,157 Investments – Operating Funds (Including Restricted Funds) $1,821,090 – Endowment Funds $15,899,162 – Land, Building and Equipment $6,071,538 Total Assets $32,281,033 Liabilities and Fund Balances Liabilities Accounts Payable
- [BIPOC Reconstructionists Cohort for Reckoning Together Pilgrimage](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/bipoc-reconstructionists-cohort-for-reckoning-together-pilgrimage/) - BIPOC Reconstructionist Cohort for Reckoning Together Pilgrimage Reckoning Together will be a multiracial pilgrimage, just as the Jewish people are a multiracial people. And, we expect the pilgrimage to be majority white-identified folks. Even though we will all be doing the same activities, we know that our experiences will not be the same, as our
- [2020 New York Day of Learning](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/2020-new-york-day-learning/)
- [Donate](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/day-of-giving-reconstructing-the-voice-of-leadership/donate/) - Join us virtually on Tues, Nov. 15 at 3:30 p.m. EST, as we focus on racial inclusion within our movement and efforts to nurture Jews of Color in leadership. The program will feature live music and teachings by future rabbis and Reconstructionist leadership, including Rabbi Sandra Lawson. We’ll shine a spotlight on how diversity has
- [Day of Giving: Reconstructing the Voice of Leadership](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/day-of-giving-reconstructing-the-voice-of-leadership/) - Join us virtually on Tues, Nov. 15 at 3:30 p.m. EST, as we focus on racial inclusion within our movement and efforts to nurture Jews of Color in leadership. The program will feature live music and teachings by future rabbis and Reconstructionist leadership, including Rabbi Sandra Lawson. We’ll shine a spotlight on how diversity has
- [Convention 2018 — Rooted and Relevant](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/convention-2018/) - You are here Home / Connect / Convention 2018 Videos and Photos Dispatches and Media Coverage Resources from Convention Save the Date! Convention 2022 Please mark your calendars for the next Reconstructionist Movement Convention, which will be produced jointly by Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association in 2022. Convention will take place March 23-27,
- [Resources from Convention](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/convention-2018/resources-convention/)
- [Videos and Images from Convention](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/convention-2018/videos-and-images-convention-2018/)
- [Fiscal Year 2020 Annual Report](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/annual-reports/2020-annual-report/)
- [Fiscal Year 2018 Annual Report](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/annual-reports/annual-report-2018/)
- [Fiscal Year 2019 Annual Report](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/annual-reports/2019-annual-report/)
- [Fiscal Year 2017 Annual Report](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/annual-reports/annual-report-2017/)
- [Virtual Holiday Boxes](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/) - Virtual Holiday Boxes Reconstructing Judaism is delighted to support your at-home celebrations of the Jewish holidays throughout the year. We provide thoughtfully curated readings, recordings and reflections to enrich your learning, spirit and joy. Virtual Passover Box Virtual Shavuot Box Virtual Tisha B’Av Box Virtual High Holiday Box Virtual Sukkot & Simchat Torah Box Virtual
- [Virtual Tu B'Shvat Box](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/tu-bshvat-box/)
- [Virtual Tisha B'Av Box](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/tisha-b-av-box/)
- [Reconstructionist Learning](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/networks/) - Bridging Ideas for a More Just and Joyous World Reconstructionist Learning provides opportunities for personal exploration, community engagement and spiritual development. Enjoy access to experts who are passionately living what they teach.Pick the learning that’s right for you. Reconstructionist Learning Networks Discover the Learning Network that’s right for you. Register Now → Ritualwell Immersions In collaboration
- [Mahzor Resources](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/high-holidays-collection-for-2023-5784/mahzor-resources-2022/) - We hope that providing this free online version of Mahzor Leyamim Nora’im: Prayerbook for the Days of Awe will help make your at-home High Holiday observances uniquely meaningful. We are grateful for the efforts of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association in subdividing the Mahzor into smaller sections for ease of use. If you are in a position to do so,
- [Video Teachings for High Holidays 2022/5783](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/high-holidays-collection-for-2023-5784/video-teachings-2022/)
- [Resources from Reconstructionist Congregations and Rabbis - High Holidays 2022/5783](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/high-holidays-collection-for-2023-5784/resources-from-congregations-and-rabbis-2022/)
- [High Holidays Collection for 2021/5782](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/highholidays2021/)
- [Resources from Reconstructionist Congregations and Rabbis - High Holidays 2021/5782](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/highholidays2021/resources-from-congregations-and-rabbis-2/)
- [Video Teachings for High Holidays 2021/5782](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/highholidays2021/video-teachings-2/)
- [New Liturgy for High Holidays 2021/5782](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/highholidays2021/new-liturgy-2/)
- [Original Music for High Holidays 2021/5782](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/highholidays2021/original-music-1/)
- [Mahzor Resources](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/highholidays2021/mahzor-resources/)
- [Weigh in on where we’re headed](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/momentum/survey/) - THE MOMENTUM CAMPAIGN Weigh in on where we’re headed As the central organization of the Reconstructionist movement, Reconstructing Judaism nurtures congregations, trains new generations of rabbis, offers platforms for Jewish connection, advocates for our values, including fighting to counter systemic racism, and so much more. As outlined in our 2021-2026 Strategic Plan, we are currently
- [Evolve Web Convo: Reconstructionism Without Zionism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reconstructionism-without-zionism/) - Join Rabbi Jacob Staub on Wednesday, July 27 at 1 p.m. EDT, when Rabbi Rebecca Alpert will discuss her essay, Reconstructionism Without Zionism. Rabbi Alpert explains that even though Reconstructionists say that belonging is primary—prior to behaving or believing, and even though the founder of Reconstructionism, Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan, was an early and enthusiastic Zionist, it is
- [Evolve Web Convo: Moving Ahead Without Leaving Anyone Behind](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/evolve-web-convo-moving-ahead-without-leaving-anyone-behind/) - Join us on Wednesday, August 10 at 1 p.m. EDT as Rabbi Sarah Brammer-Shlay discusses her Evolve essay, “Moving Ahead Without Leaving Anyone Behind: A Loving Strategy for Bold Leadership.” Sarah reflects upon the dilemma faced by any leader who wants to lead boldly when many are not ready to move so quickly. Her proposal
- [Through a Reconstructionist Lens](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/through-a-reconstructionist-lens/) - In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Judith Kaplan Eisenstein becoming the first American bat mitzvah, we have curated a 15-session curriculum for adults recommitting to reconstructionist learning, originally created as an Adult B- / Re- Mitzvah program. The goal of this class is for adult learners to engage with the movement in exploring evolving
- [Support Racial Justice](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/support-racial-justice/) - Support Racial Justice Do you want to join our efforts to dismantle systems of oppression within Reconstructionist communities and beyond? Are you committed to cultivating radical, celebratory inclusion in our congregations? Reconstructing Judaism needs supporters and allies like you to make this vision a reality. Make your gift to our racial justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion work
- [Evolve Web Conversation: God is Here](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/evolve-web-conversation-god-here/) - Rabbi Toba Spitzer will discuss her just-published book, God Is Here: Reimagining the Divine, with Rabbi Nancy Fuchs Kreimer and Rabbi Jacob Staub on Thursday, June 23 at 1 p.m. EDT. Fuchs Kreimer’s review essay of the book recently appeared on Evolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations. Going back to the earliest sources for Judaism as well as Christianity, Spitzer discovers in the Hebrew Bible a rich
- [Join us to launch the Momentum Campaign](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/momentum-register/) - The future of Reconstructing Judaism Join us on Thursday, June 23 at 7:30 p.m. EDT / 4:30 p.m. PDT We were made for this moment. Founded to meet the needs of an evolving Jewish civilization, the Reconstructionist movement is entering its second century amidst a world of constant change. With the wisdom of a new
- [Reconstructing Judaism: Strategic Plan 2021-2026](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/reconstructing-judaism-strategic-plan-2021-2026/) - Reconstructing Judaism: Strategic Plan 2021-2026 Full Strategic Plan The complete version of the strategic plan is available in PDF format here: Reconstructing Judaism Strategic Plan: 2021-2026 (PDF format) Executive Summary A printable PDF version of the Executive Summary is available at this link: Reconstructing Judaism Strategic Plan: 2021-2026 — Executive Summary (PDF format) On March 14,
- [Rabbinical/Leadership Training](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/rabbinical-leadership-training/) - The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College Reconstructionist Rabbinical College (RRC) is the sole seminary of the Reconstructionist movement. Founded in 1968 to serve the Jewish people and the wider world, RRC is a diverse, intimate, inclusive and justice-seeking community. The curriculum is distinguished by the unique Reconstructionist understanding of Judaism as a dynamic civilization characterized by vibrant
- [Education](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/education/)
- [Liturgy and Services](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/liturgy-and-services/)
- [Programs](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/programs/)
- [Public Statements and Positions (By Topic)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/positions-by-topic/) - This page contains statements issued or endorsed by Reconstructionist institutions, grouped by primary topic. A listing grouped by date is available here. a A Passover Message From Rabbi Deborah Waxman March 31, 2026 Read More Abortion After Roe June 24, 2022 The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA) and Reconstructing Judaism denounce the Supreme Court’s decision to
- [Evolve Web Conversation: Gender Fluid Shekhinah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/evolve-web-conversation-gender-fluid-shekhinah/) - On Tuesday, May 24 at 3:00 p.m. Eastern, Rabbi Lynn Gottlieb will discuss her essay, Gender Fluid Shekhinah: It Matters How We Gender God. Rabbi Gottlieb was one of the first women ordained as Reform rabbis and was one of the original generators of Jewish feminist theology. She makes the persuasive case that the genders we
- [Get in Touch!](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/contact/) - Get in Touch! We’d love to hear from you! Please let us know what questions you have, feedback on the website, or how we can help you connect with the Reconstructionist movement and Reconstructing Judaism. LinkedIn This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Email Address(Required) Full Name Are you affiliated with
- [Network for Network Builders](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/networks/network-builders/)
- [Online Adult Learning](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/online-adult-learning/) - View all Shavuot All Night Learning Videos
- [Communications for Affiliates](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/communications-for-affiliates/) - Communications for Affiliates News to Share Listserves Newsletter Archive Affiliation Graphics Affiliate Messaging Resources Marketing Resource Kit When the Call Comes, Will Your Congregation Be Ready? What a Reconstructionist Approach Offers Webinar: Introduction to PR and Media Relations Talking with News Media Affiliation Graphics Download Affiliate Graphic Options Download Reconstructing Judaism Logo Affiliate Messaging Resources
- [Terms and Conditions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/terms-and-conditions/) - Terms & Conditions We want to respect the integrity of all material contributed and utilized through our website, so we ask you to follow these guidelines: Unless otherwise specifically agreed in writing, the information provided on our website is for educational and religious purposes only. You may use our site only as permitted by law,
- [Korekh | Eating Matzah and Maror together    ](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/korekh/)
- [Maror | Bitter Herb](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/maror/)
- [Karpas | Dipping Vegetables in Salt Water](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/karpas/)
- [Hallel | Psalms of Praise](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/hallel/)
- [Barekh | Blessing after the meal](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/barekh/)
- [Nirtzah | Fourth Cup and Conclusion](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/virtual-holiday-boxes/passover-box/nirtzah/)
- [A Brief History of Annexation: A JIC Resource for Study and Discussions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/brief-history-annexation-jic-resource-study-and-discussions/) - A Brief History of Annexation: A JIC Resource for Study and Discussions Below you can access three resources. The first is a video webinar in which members of the Joint Israel Commission go over the contents of this resource document and describe some of the ways it can be used for adult education and community
- [Shutafut Showcase: Meet Israeli Organizations Ready to Work with Your Congregation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/israel/shutafut-showcase-meet-israeli-organizations-ready-work-your-congregation/) - Sure, you can talk about Israel. But why not engage with Israelis working for a better future for all? The Shutafut Working Group of the Joint Israel Commission (JIC) helps Reconstructionist rabbis and congregations create partnerships with Israeli and Israeli-Palestinian organizations doing important work consonant with our movement’s mission and values. Our partner organizations fall in three broad categories: Peace and
- [Directory of Reconstructionist Congregations and Havurot](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/directory/) - The Reconstructionist movement is national and global. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual home or simply more information about local congregations, we invite you to use the directory below to see a list of all congregations and havurot. Here you will find contact details, maps, leadership information, and other important details. United States California Congregation
- [Israel Dual Narrative](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/networks/israel-dual-narrative/)
- [Life Cycle](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/life-cycle/) - Whether the ritual focuses on celebrating or mourning, the transition will leave us in a different place from where we started. Having goals for the ritual helps us to make good choices. Rabbi David Teutsch, Ph.D., A Guide to Jewish Practice Volume 3 — The Life Cycle Tweet Marking Life’s Joys and Sorrows Reconstructionist Judaism
- [Introductory Materials: Jews, Race, and Religion](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/jews-race-and-religion/intro/)
- [Authors](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/authors/)
- [Shutafut Organizations: Peace and Justice](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/israel/shutafut/peace-and-justice/)
- [Shutafut Organizations: Shared Society](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/israel/shutafut/shared-society/)
- [Shutafut Organizations: Religious Pluralism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/israel/shutafut/religious-pluralism/)
- [Training Rabbis for Ethical Leadership](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/training-rabbis-ethical-leadership/)
- [Convention 2022 — B'yachad: Reconstructing Judaism Together](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/convention/) - From March 24-27, 2022, reconstructionists gathered both in-person and online from all over North America and beyond to learn, sing, pray and connect at B’Yachad: Reconstructing Judaism Together. This hybrid convention drew upon our work over the past 2+ years in creating new modes of multi-access gathering. Over four days, more than 460 people
- [Research Fellowship "Race, Religion and American Judaism"](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/research-fellowship-race-religion-and-american-judaism/)
- [Public Statements and Positions (By Date)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/positions-by-date/) - This page contains statements issued or endorsed by Reconstructionist institutions, grouped by the year and month posted. A listing grouped by topic is available here. March 2026 CEO and President Deborah Waxman at J Street Convention 2026: On War, Democracy, and the Courage to Hold Complexity March 2, 2026 This is so hard. Everything changes
- [Listserves](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/listserves/) - Our listservs provide a space for congregational staff and lay leadership to connect with one another, ask questions and collaborate to find solutions to issues facing their communities. Each listserv is open to several congregational roles, including presidents and board leadership, executive directors and administrators, educators and education directions, and social justice chairs. If you
- [Pandemic Resources](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/pandemic-resources/)
- [Affiliate Messaging Resources](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/affiliate-messaging-resources/)
- [Affiliation Graphics](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/congregational-resources/affiliation-graphics/)
- [Text Study for Board Meetings](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/text-study-board-meetings/)
- [Podcasts](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/podcasts/) - Podcasts At Reconstructing Judaism, we cherish stories and holy conversations that parse out challenges and explore solutions. Hashivenu Hashivenu is a podcast about Jewish teachings and practice around resilience. Cultivating resilience in challenging times, both individually and collectively, is an essential path to personal renewal. Hosted by Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., the show explores pathways
- [Lecture 9: "Funny - You Don't Look Jewish!"](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/jews-race-and-religion/lecture-9/)
- [Lecture 8: “We are the Ethiopian Hebrews, Brothers to the Fair White Jew”: Race, Religion, and Jewish Identity in Harlem](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/jews-race-and-religion/lecture-8/)
- [Lecture 7: Race, Class and Privilege: How Latino Jews navigate life in the United States](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/center-jewish-ethics/jews-race-and-religion/lecture-7/)
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- [Author Archive](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-865) - Author Archive Source Sheet for Homelessness and Racism Session 1.26.20 January 31, 2020 Read More » Substance Abuse, Mental Illness, and Homelessness Handout January 30, 2020 Read More »
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- [When Jewish Women Lead - temp save](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=when-jewish-women-lead-temp-save) - Join Rabbi Deborah Waxman and fellow leaders Cheryl Cook, CEO of Avodah; Cindy Greenberg, CEO of Repair the World; and Ilana Aisen, CEO of JPro, on Wednesday, April 3 at 7 p.m. EDT | 6 p.m. CDT | 5 p.m. MDT | 4 p.m. PDT for this special one-hour virtual event, also featuring Seth L.
- [Leadership Resource Library](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=leadership-resource-library) - Leadership Resource Library Welcome to the Department for Thriving Communities at Reconstructing Judaism’s resource library for congregations. On this password-protected page for congregational leaders, you can find resources on many topics to help your congregation or havurah. These resources are organized by topic, and you may also search and sort the files based on your needs. The
- [Leadership Resource Listing Item](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=leadership-resource-listing-item) - Aug 15, 2024
- [Tzedek Circle - UPDATED](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=tzedek-circle-updated) - Reconstructing Judaism is excited to announce Tzedek Circles. This Zoom series, starting in March, will introduce five social justice initiatives from trusted partner organizations. Each “Tzedek Circle” organization offers a supported model for organizing a small, self-sustaining group of congregants to do impactful advocacy or service work on the most pressing social justice issues of
- [Tzedek Circles](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=tzedek-circles) - Reconstructing Judaism is excited to announce Tzedek Circles. This Zoom series, starting in March, will introduce five social justice initiatives from trusted partner organizations. Each “Tzedek Circle” organization offers a supported model for organizing a small, self-sustaining group of congregants to do impactful advocacy or service work on the most pressing social justice issues of
- [Organization Profile](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=organization-profile) - Home » Organization Profile Organization Profile Location Pittsburgh, PA 15217-1246 United States Contact Info Bethlehem Congregation Am Haskalah Fort Washington Or Hadash Mechanicsburg Beth Shalom Media Congregation Beth Israel New Hope Kehilat HaNahar Philadelphia Mishkan Shalom Philadelphia Leyv Ha-Ir Philadelphia Kol Tzedek Philadelphia Minyan Dorshei Derekh View all congregations
- [Article: Course Spotlight: Rabbis in Social Movements](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=article-course-spotlight-rabbis-in-social-movements) - When Rabbi Alex Weissman applied to rabbinical school in 2011, he estimates that there were just a handful of rabbis working at social-justice organizations. Fast-forward a dozen years and that number now exceeds several dozen — too many for Weissman to name. Why the dramatic shift? Many advocacy organizations now recognize the role that clergy
- [2324TYRegistration+Donation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=2324tyregistrationdonation) - Register for our Torat Yovel Celebrations Click here to buy ticketsSell tickets online with Ticket Tailor
- [Recon Hero Nov 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=recon-hero-nov-2023) - Praying for Israel and for Peace Read Our Movement's Statement PIN Statement We've Signed On to Find Spiritual Support Read Analysis How You Can Help Join our event on Thurs, Nov. 16
- [Evolve Web Convo Event Page](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=evolve-web-convo-event-page) - Rabbi Xava De Cordova will discuss her Evolve essay with Rabbi Jacob Staub. What can all Jews learn from trans-Jews about reconstructing our relationship to inherited Jewish laws and customs? There is no charge required to register for an Evolve web conversation. Participants can interact with the speaker, making comments and asking questions. Register Here for FREE!
- [Hashivenu Podcast Highlight](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=hashivenu-podcast-highlight) - Hashivenu: A Podcast on Resilience Season of Reflection and Repentance In this special episode, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D and Rabbi Sandra Lawson discuss their respective processes of preparing for the High Holidays. List & Subscribe
- [HH Video](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=hh-video) - A High Holiday Message A High Holiday message from Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., president of Reconstructing Judaism
- [CTA_Podcast](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=cta_podcast) - Hashivenu: A Podcast on Resilience Season of Reflection and Repentance In this special episode, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D and Rabbi Sandra Lawson discuss their respective processes of preparing for the High Holidays. List & Subscribe
- [Video Highlight](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=video-highlight) - A High Holiday Message A High Holiday message from Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., president of Reconstructing Judaism
- [RW Event](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=rw-event) - Change Through Acceptance: the Hasidic Notion of Teshuvah with Rabbi Michael StrassfeldTuesdays, Sept. 5, 12 & 19, 202312–1:15 p.m. EDT Register now
- [Juneteenth Public Statement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=juneteenth-public-statement) - Reconstructing Judaism, The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and 27 other Jewish organizations have signed on to a letter sent to President Biden, urging his administration to establish a commission to study and develop reparation proposals for African Americans through executive order before Juneteenth. This call to action renews the request of 2022, when racial justice and
- [Evolve About](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=evolve-about) - About EvolveEvolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations is an initiative of Reconstructing Judaism. We seek to promote the ongoing evolution of the Jewish community by launching collective, communal conversations about the urgent issues of our day. To that end, Evolve brings multiple voices together to listen to one another’s point of view and to interact respectfully. In an
- [About Evolve 2](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=about-evolve-2-2) - About EvolveEvolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations is an initiative of Reconstructing Judaism. We seek to promote the ongoing evolution of the Jewish community by launching collective, communal conversations about the urgent issues of our day. To that end, Evolve brings multiple voices together to listen to one another’s point of view and to interact respectfully. In an
- [About Evolve 2](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=about-evolve-2) - About EvolveEvolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations is an initiative of Reconstructing Judaism. We seek to promote the ongoing evolution of the Jewish community by launching collective, communal conversations about the urgent issues of our day. To that end, Evolve brings multiple voices together to listen to one another’s point of view and to interact respectfully. In an
- [About Evolve](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=about-evolve) - Rabbi Julie GreenbergRabbi Julie Greenberg is the director of Climate Justice and Jobs at POWER Interfaith and is in her 22nd year serving as rabbi of Reconstructing Judaism congregation Leyv Ha-Ir~Heart of the City in Philadelphia. She is the mother of Rosi, Raffi, Zoe, Jonah and Mozelle. She also teaches rising therapists at the Council
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- [Section-additionalhanukkahresources](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=section-additionalhanukkahresources) - Check out these additional Hanukkah resources you might enjoy: Eight Ritual Steps of Hakhnasat Orkhim (Welcoming Guests) Bendigamos al Altísimo: A Ladino Hanukkah Blessing for the Seventh Night Kwanzakkah Eight Questions for Eight Nights One Becomes Two Becomes More: A Hanukkah Song Who Can Remember? A Hanukkah Story On Hanukkah and the Use of Force
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- [Section-ManualRelated](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=section-manualrelated) - Check out these resources you might enjoy: Eight Ritual Steps of Hakhnasat Orkhim (Welcoming Guests) Kwanzakkah Eight Questions for Eight Nights
- [Page export - Reconstructionism as an Approach](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=page-export-reconstructionism-as-an-approach) - Deeply Rooted, Boldly Relevant Reconstructionists approach Judaism—and life—with deep consideration of the past and a passion to relate it to the present. Applying our understanding of Judaism as the evolving religious civilization of the Jewish people, we draw from the rich wellsprings of Jewish tradition to face the challenges and opportunities of the current moment.
- [Homepage - Recon network row](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=homepage-recon-network-row) - Ritualwell is the most extensive online resource curating original, progressive Jewish rituals. We foster a supportive online community for those seeking to make Jewish practice their own. Visit Ritualwell.org Evolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations is a multimedia project highlighting the most cutting-edge thinking in the Reconstructionist movement and wider Jewish world. Through essays, podcasts, and web
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- [HH Audio  - listing template](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=hh-audio-listing-template) - HH Audio – listing template Home » HH Audio – listing template HH Audio – listing template Hakhnasat Sefer Torah Page: 598 | Service: Torah Service Morning Concluding | Order: 1 Download audio B’sheva Shel Ma’la Page: 692 | Service: Kol Nidre | Order: 1 Download audio null Service: Musaf Shofarot | Order: 1 Download
- [Reparations page](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=reparations-page) - Reparations page The Tikkun Olam Commission has approved a draft resolution in support of reparations to be considered by the entire Reconstructionist Movement. You may already be asking the classic talmudic question, mai reparations? What do you mean by reparations? To which we offer the talmudic response, ta sh’ma: Come and learn with us. Reparations can
- [Recon Homepage](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=recon-homepage) - The Momentum Campaign Our ambitious effort to fund the next chapter of our work Learn More Deeply rooted. Boldly relevant. Reconstructing Judaism: the central organization of the groundbreaking, always-evolving Reconstructionist movement. We help build thriving Jewish communities, empower individuals to lead lives of deeper meaning and purpose, train rabbis who make a difference, and work to bring about a more just and sustainable world.
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- [Listing - All CPT's by category](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/?elementor_library=listing-all-cpts-by-category) - Reconstructing Judaism Endorses Bipartisan Federal Antisemitism Legislation Uncategorized June 25, 2026 Reconstructing Judaism has joined a broad coalition of Jewish organizations in endorsing the Jewish American Security Act, bipartisan legislation introduced in May 2026 by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and James Lankford (R-OK) to strengthen federal protections for Jewish communities across the country. The
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## Leadership Resources

- [TBH Strategic Plan 2026-2033](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/tbh-strategic-plan-2026-2033/)
- [Ner Shalom Dues Letter 2025](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/ner-shalom-dues-letter-2025/)
- [Ner Shalom Dues Renewal Packet 2025](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/ner-shalom-dues-renewal-packet-2025/)
- [Rethinking Clergy Contract Negotiations - R' Elyse Wechterman](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/rethinking-clergy-contract-negotiations-r-elyse-wechterman/)
- [A Simple and Effective Evaluation Process for Synagogue Executive Directors and Senior Staff](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/a-simple-and-effective-evaluation-process-for-synagogue-executive-directors-and-senior-staff/)
- [Brit - Covenant Template for Rabbi and Executive Director](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/brit-covenant-template-for-rabbi-and-executive-director/)
- [Executive Director Evaluation Template](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/executive-director-evaluation-template/)
- [Strategic Plan - Temple Beth Israel Eugene 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/strategic-plan-temple-beth-israel-eugene-2024/)
- [Strategic Plan - Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/strategic-plan-jewish-reconstructionist-congregation-2023/)
- [Strategic Plan - Dor Hadash 2021](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/strategic-plan-dor-hadash-2021/)
- [Strategic Plan - Darchei Noam 2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/strategic-plan-darchei-noam-2023/)
- [Sample Short Mission Statement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/sample-short-mission-statement/)
- [Reconstructing Judaism Mission, Vision, and Values - Adapted for Affiliate Use](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/reconstructing-judaism-mission-vision-and-values-adapted-for-affiliate-use/)
- [Mission and Values - Or Shalom](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/mission-and-values-or-shalom/)
- [Mission and Values - JRC](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/mission-and-values-jrc/)
- [Mission and Values - Dorshei Tzedek](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/mission-and-values-dorshei-tzedek/)
- [Mission and Values - Adat Shalom](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/mission-and-values-adat-shalom/)
- [Suggestions for a Productive Rabbi Candidate Interview](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/suggestions-for-a-productive-rabbi-candidate-interview/)
- [Suggested 2nd Round Candidate Interview Questions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/suggested-2nd-round-candidate-interview-questions/)
- [Suggested Rabbi Candidate Interview Questions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/suggested-rabbi-candidate-interview-questions/)
- [Rabbi-Advisory-Committee-Description_JRC_2017](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/rabbi-advisory-committee-description_jrc_2017/)
- [Cantor-Advisory-Committee-Description_JRC_2023](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/cantor-advisory-committee-description_jrc_2023/)
- [Boundaries and Opportunities: The Role of Non-Jews in JRF Congregations](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/boundaries-and-opportunities-the-role-of-non-jews-in-jrf-congregations/)
- [JCA Sustaining Partnership Dues Model](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/jca-sustaining-partnership-dues-model/)
- [Adat Shalom Dues Adjustment Guidelines](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/adat-shalom-dues-adjustment-guidelines/)
- [TBH Greeter Guide](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/tbh-greeter-guide/)
- [Sabbatical Sample Contract Language](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/sabbatical-sample-contract-language/)
- [Rabbi Sabbatical RRA Resource](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/rabbi-sabbatical-rra-resource/)
- [Preparing for a Rabbinic Sabbatical From the Perspective of the Congregational Leadership - Reconstructing Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/preparing-for-a-rabbinic-sabbatical-from-the-perspective-of-the-congregational-leadership-reconstructing-judaism/)
- [TBS Employee Benefits Policy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/tbs-employee-benefits-policy/)
- [Kol Tzedek_KT Bulletin Board Announcement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kol-tzedek_kt-bulletin-board-announcement/)
- [Rental Use Policy and Application_Temple Beth Hatfiloh_ 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/rental-use-policy-and-application_temple-beth-hatfiloh_-2024/)
- [Community Usage Agreement Facebook Group_Kol HaLev_2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/community-usage-agreement-facebook-group_kol-halev_2024/)
- [Fundraising Through Relationships_Key Questions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/fundraising-through-relationships_key-questions/)
- [Board-Training-Agenda-Samples-from-Recon-Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/board-training-agenda-samples-from-recon-judaism/)
- [Endowment Fund Policy_Havurah Shalom](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/endowment-fund-policy_havurah-shalom/)
- [Large Gifts Policy_Bnai Keshet_01_14](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/large-gifts-policy_bnai-keshet_01_14/)
- [Grant Writing 101 Video](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/grant-writing-101-video/)
- [Responsibilities of the Board_Adat Shalom.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/responsibilities-of-the-board_adat-shalom-pdf/)
- [Responsibilities of the Board_Adat Shalom.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/responsibilities-of-the-board_adat-shalom-pdf-2/)
- [A Little Text Study for Board Meetings Vol.1-4](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/a-little-text-study-for-board-meetings-vol-1-4/)
- [Rabbinic Transition_Excerpt from Rabbi Cong Relationship.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/rabbinic-transition_excerpt-from-rabbi-cong-relationship-pdf/)
- [Thriving Communities Rabbinic Evaluation Guide _2018.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/thriving-communities-rabbinic-evaluation-guide-_2018-pdf/)
- [Liaison Committees_Exerpt from Rabbi Cong Relationship.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/liaison-committees_exerpt-from-rabbi-cong-relationship-pdf/)
- [Thriving Communities Favorite Tips for Presidents.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/thriving-communities-favorite-tips-for-presidents-pdf/)
- [Whos the Boss Reporting Structures in Synagogues.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/whos-the-boss-reporting-structures-in-synagogues-pdf/)
- [Protection from Abuse Policy Template.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/protection-from-abuse-policy-template-docx/)
- [Kashrut Educational Curriculum_Rabbi Maurice Harris.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kashrut-educational-curriculum_rabbi-maurice-harris-pdf/)
- [Sample Endowment Gift Policy.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/sample-endowment-gift-policy-pdf/)
- [Employee Handbook_Temple Beth Shalom_2017.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/employee-handbook_temple-beth-shalom_2017-pdf/)
- [Employee Handbook_TBI Eugene_2017.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/employee-handbook_tbi-eugene_2017-pdf/)
- [JRC Covenant of Kavod Sicha Honorable Discourse.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/jrc-covenant-of-kavod-sicha-hnorable-discourse-pdf/)
- [Jewish Social Justice Roundtable.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/jewish-social-justice-roundtable-docx/)
- [Camp Havayah Brit.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/camp-havayah-brit-pdf/)
- [Sample Fiscal Controls.doc](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/sample-fiscal-controls-doc/)
- [Sample Treasurer Report 1.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/sample-treasurer-report-1-pdf/)
- [Sample Treasurer Report 2.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/sample-treasurer-report-2-pdf/)
- [Sample Financial Dashboard.xlsx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/sample-financial-dashboard-xlsx/)
- [Sample Financials Dashboard.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/sample-financials-dashboard-docx/)
- [Board Member Agreement_Bnai Havurah_2023.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/board-member-agreement_bnai-havurah_2023-pdf/)
- [Annual Report_Ner Shalom_2023.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/annual-report_ner-shalom_2023-pdf/)
- [Voluntary Commitment Talking points_Shir Hadash_2019.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/voluntary-commitment-talking-points_shir-hadash_2019-pdf/)
- [What is Nadiv Lev_Kadima.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/what-is-nadiv-lev_kadima-pdf/)
- [Sample Form - Request for Synagogue to Sponsor.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/sample-form-request-for-synagogue-to-sponsor-docx/)
- [Resources for a new Congregational Rabbi to Identify_2018.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/resources-for-a-new-congregational-rabbi-to-identify_2018-docx/)
- [Placement Guidelines_RRA and RJ_2002.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/placement-guidelines_rra-and-rj_2002-pdf/)
- [Installation of New Rabbi.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/installation-of-new-rabbi-pdf/)
- [Bringing the Relationship to a Close_Exerpt Rabbi Cong Relationship.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/bringing-the-relationship-to-a-close_exerpt-rabbi-cong-relationship-pdf/)
- [Pulpit Politics by R. Elliott Tepperman.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/pulpit-politics-by-r-elliott-tepperman-pdf/)
- [Sample Emeriti Agreement.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/sample-emeriti-agreement-docx/)
- [RRA Ethics Code - Emiriti.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/rra-ethics-code-emiriti-docx/)
- [Retirement Contract Emerita addendum to Final Contract.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/retirement-contract-emerita-addendum-to-final-contract-docx/)
- [Rabbi Emeritus Letter of Agreement time specific with fees.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/rabbi-emeritus-letter-of-agreement-time-specific-with-fees-docx/)
- [Rabbi Emeritus Continuing Relationship with fee schedule.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/rabbi-emeritus-continuing-relationship-with-fee-schedule-docx/)
- [Emeritus or Emerita Agreement Letter.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/emeritus-or-emerita-agreement-letter-docx/)
- [Aytza Tova for Rabbi and Emeritus Rabbi Coordination and Communication.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/aytza-tova-for-rabbi-and-emeritus-rabbi-coordination-and-communication-pdf/)
- [Rabbinic Evaluation_Exerpt from Rabbi Cong Relationship.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/rabbinic-evaluation_exerpt-from-rabbi-cong-relationship-pdf/)
- [Rabbinic Evaluation FAQ_RRA and RJ.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/rabbinic-evaluation-faq_rra-and-rj-pdf/)
- [Rabbi Evaluation Dos and Donts_RRA_2018.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/rabbi-evaluation-dos-and-donts_rra_2018-pdf/)
- [Annual Rabbi Goals and Evaluation Questions_R. Elyse Wechterman.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/annual-rabbi-goals-and-evaluation-questions_r-elyse-wechterman-docx/)
- [Advice on Clergy Evaluations_Alban Institute.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/advice-on-clergy-evaluations_alban-institute-pdf/)
- [Supervision Liaison Evaluation Defined.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/supervision-liaison-evaluation-defined-pdf/)
- [Liaison Committee Suggestions_R Elyse Wechterman_2023.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/liaison-committee-suggestions_r-elyse-wechterman_2023-pdf/)
- [The Rabbi Congregation Relationship.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/the-rabbi-congregation-relationship-pdf/)
- [Thriving Communities Tips for Creating a High Holiday Speech.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/thriving-communities-tips-for-creating-a-high-holiday-speech-pdf/)
- [Thriving Communities Sermon Starters for Presidents High Holiday Message 2020.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/thriving-communities-sermon-starters-for-presidents-high-holiday-message-2020-pdf/)
- [Thriving Communities Presidents' Guide to Writing a High Holiday Message 2023.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/thriving-communities-presidents-guide-to-writing-a-high-holiday-message-2023-pdf/)
- [URJ Guide to Developing Planned Giving in Your Synagogue.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/urj-guide-to-developing-planned-giving-in-your-synagogue-pdf/)
- [Sample Estate Planning Worksheet.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/sample-estate-planning-worksheet-pdf/)
- [Planned Giving Presentation_RJ_2023.docx.pptx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/planned-giving-presentation_rj_2023-docx-pptx/)
- [Legacy Gift Pledge Form Template.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/legacy-gift-pledge-form-template-pdf/)
- [Legacy Gift Pledge Form Template.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/legacy-gift-pledge-form-template-docx/)
- [Legacy Gift Confirmation Form Template.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/legacy-gift-confirmation-form-template-pdf/)
- [Legacy Gift Confirmation Form Template.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/legacy-gift-confirmation-form-template-docx/)
- [Legacy Circle Sample HHD Bookmark.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/legacy-circle-sample-hhd-bookmark-pdf/)
- [Legacy Circle Pledge Form_Ner Shalom.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/legacy-circle-pledge-form_ner-shalom-pdf/)
- [Organizational Chart_TBI Eugene.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/organizational-chart_tbi-eugene-pdf/)
- [Organizational Chart_Oseh Shalom.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/organizational-chart_oseh-shalom-pdf/)
- [Organizational Chart_Congregation Kehilat Shalom_2020.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/organizational-chart_congregation-kehilat-shalom_2020-pdf/)
- [Organizational Chart with Committee Chairs.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/organizational-chart-with-committee-chairs-pdf/)
- [Organization Chart_Hillel Bnai Torah.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/organization-chart_hillel-bnai-torah-pdf/)
- [Protection from Abuse Policy_Or Hadash Board_2014.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/protection-from-abuse-policy_or-hadash-board_2014-pdf/)
- [Protection from Abuse Policy_Kehilat HaNahar_2016.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/protection-from-abuse-policy_kehilat-hanahar_2016-docx/)
- [Policy on Harassment and Discrimination_Temple Shalom of the South Bay.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/policy-on-harassment-and-discrimination_temple-shalom-of-the-south-bay-docx/)
- [Policy Guidelines on the Prevention of and Response to Abuse_Kehilla Community Synagogue_2012.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/policy-guidelines-on-the-prevention-of-and-response-to-abuse_kehilla-community-synagogue_2012-pdf/)
- [Abuse & Misconduct Policy_TBI Eugene.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/abuse-misconduct-policy_tbi-eugene-pdf/)
- [TC Presidents Listserv Guidelines.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/tc-presidents-listserv-guidelines-pdf/)
- [Adat_Shalom_ListServe_Guidelines 1.6.10.doc](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/adat_shalom_listserve_guidelines-1-6-10-doc/)
- [Kashrut Policy_Temple Israel Duluth_2004.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kashrut-policy_temple-israel-duluth_2004-pdf/)
- [Kashrut Policy_Temple Hillel B'Nai Torah_2017.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kashrut-policy_temple-hillel-bnai-torah_2017-pdf/)
- [Kashrut Policy_Kol HaLev_2022.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kashrut-policy_kol-halev_2022-pdf/)
- [Kashrut Policy_Kehillat HaNahar.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kashrut-policy_kehillat-hanahar-pdf/)
- [Kashrut Policy_JRC_2022.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kashrut-policy_jrc_2022-pdf/)
- [Kashrut Policy_Beth Israel Media_2019.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kashrut-policy_beth-israel-media_2019-pdf/)
- [Kashrut Policy_Agudas Achim_2022.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kashrut-policy_agudas-achim_2022-pdf/)
- [Kashrut Policy Mayim Rabim_2015.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kashrut-policy-mayim-rabim_2015-pdf/)
- [Kashrut and Eco-Kashrut Policy_Kol Tzedek.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kashrut-and-eco-kashrut-policy_kol-tzedek-pdf/)
- [Food Policy_Temple Beth Hatfiloh_2022.doc](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/food-policy_temple-beth-hatfiloh_2022-doc/)
- [Senior Assistant to the Exec Director JD_Temple Sinai_2018.doc](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/senior-assistant-to-the-exec-director-jd_temple-sinai_2018-doc/)
- [Managing Director part time JD_Am Haskalah.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/managing-director-part-time-jd_am-haskalah-docx/)
- [Executive Director Job Posting_Congregation Dorshei Tzedek.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/executive-director-job-posting_congregation-dorshei-tzedek-docx/)
- [Executive Director Job Description_SAJ_ 2023.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/executive-director-job-description_saj_-2023-pdf/)
- [Executive Director JD_University Synagogue.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/executive-director-jd_university-synagogue-pdf/)
- [Executive Director JD_TBI Eugene_2022.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/executive-director-jd_tbi-eugene_2022-docx/)
- [Executive Director JD_RSNS.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/executive-director-jd_rsns-docx/)
- [Executive Director JD_Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/executive-director-jd_jewish-reconstructionist-congregation-pdf/)
- [Executive Director and Director of Operations JD_Bnei Keshet_2017.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/executive-director-and-director-of-operations-jd_bnei-keshet_2017-docx/)
- [Administrator Part Time JD_Beth Israel Media.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/administrator-part-time-jd_beth-israel-media-pdf/)
- [Administrator JD_ Oseh Shalom.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/administrator-jd_-oseh-shalom-docx/)
- [Administrative Director Job Posting_Jewish Community of Amherst_2014.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/administrative-director-job-posting_jewish-community-of-amherst_2014-docx/)
- [Grant Writing 101 Slides_Susan Berman_2017.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/grant-writing-101-slides_susan-berman_2017-pdf/)
- [Employee Handbook_Chapel Hill Kehillah_2011.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/employee-handbook_chapel-hill-kehillah_2011-pdf/)
- [RRC Community commitments.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/rrc-community-commitments-pdf/)
- [Leyv Ha Ir Civil Discourse 2021.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/leyv-ha-ir-civil-discourse-2021-docx/)
- [Kol Ami NVRC Civil Discourse 9.8.19.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kol-ami-nvrc-civil-discourse-9-8-19-pdf/)
- [Kol Ami A Covenantal Community.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/kol-ami-a-covenantal-community-docx/)
- [Brit Briyut - Congregation Bet Haverim.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/brit-briyut-congregation-bet-haverim-pdf/)
- [Bylaws_WES_2002.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/bylaws_wes_2002-pdf/)
- [Bylaws_TBI Eugene_2018.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/bylaws_tbi-eugene_2018-pdf/)
- [Bylaws_RSNS_2014.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/bylaws_rsns_2014-pdf/)
- [Bylaws_Mishkan Torah_2021.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/bylaws_mishkan-torah_2021-pdf/)
- [Bylaws_Kol Tzedek_2021.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/bylaws_kol-tzedek_2021-pdf/)
- [Bylaws_Cong Beth El_2015.PDF](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/bylaws_cong-beth-el_2015-pdf/)
- [Bylaws_Beth Israel Media_2012.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/bylaws_beth-israel-media_2012-pdf/)
- [Bylaws_BAS_2021.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/bylaws_bas_2021-pdf/)
- [Tackling Your Synagogues Biggest Financial Challenge from E Jewish Philanthropy.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/tackling-your-synagogues-biggest-financial-challenge-from-e-jewish-philanthropy-pdf/)
- [Sample Dues Income Summary Report.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/sample-dues-income-summary-report-pdf/)
- [Financial VP Report to the Board_Oseh Shalom.pptx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/financial-vp-report-to-the-board_oseh-shalom-pptx/)
- [Community Values Relevant to Finance Committee Work_Kol HaLev.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/community-values-relevant-to-finance-committee-work_kol-halev-docx/)
- [VP Job Description_Havurah Shalom.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/vp-job-description_havurah-shalom-pdf/)
- [Staffs Manage. Boards Govern Article_EJewishPhilanthropy_2017.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/staffs-manage-boards-govern-article_ejewishphilanthropy_2017-docx/)
- [Roles of Board Members_Kadima.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/roles-of-board-members_kadima-pdf/)
- [Co-President Duties_Havurah Shalom.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/co-president-duties_havurah-shalom-pdf/)
- [Board Job Descriptions_JRC _1998.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/board-job-descriptions_jrc-_1998-pdf/)
- [Being a Powerhouse Board Member _CJC.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/being-a-powerhouse-board-member-_cjc-docx/)
- [Covenental Relationships_Kol Ami_2019.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/covenental-relationships_kol-ami_2019-docx/)
- [Covenant of Speech for Board Meetings_JRC.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/covenant-of-speech-for-board-meetings_jrc-pdf/)
- [Confidentiality Agreement_B'nai Havurah_2023.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/confidentiality-agreement_bnai-havurah_2023-pdf/)
- [Board Working Agreements_TBI Eugene.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/board-working-agreements_tbi-eugene-pdf/)
- [Board Manual_Adat Shalom_2014.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/board-manual_adat-shalom_2014-docx/)
- [Board Handbook_Oseh Shalom_2021.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/board-handbook_oseh-shalom_2021-docx/)
- [Board Behavioral Covenant_Ahavath Shalom.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/board-behavioral-covenant_ahavath-shalom-pdf/)
- [Our Shared Commitment Cover Letter_TBI Eugene_2019.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/our-shared-commitment-cover-letter_tbi-eugene_2019-pdf/)
- [Our Shared Commitment Brochure_TBI Eugene_2019.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/our-shared-commitment-brochure_tbi-eugene_2019-pdf/)
- [Membership Commitment Form_TBI Eugene_2019.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/membership-commitment-form_tbi-eugene_2019-pdf/)
- [Cover Letter 1st Year Our Shared Commitment_TBI Eugene.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/cover-letter-1st-year-our-shared-commitment_tbi-eugene-docx/)
- [Tikkun Olam Endorsement Decisions_JRC_2022.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/tikkun-olam-endorsement-decisions_jrc_2022-pdf/)
- [Social Justice Policy_KI_2017.docx](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/social-justice-policy_ki_2017-docx/)
- [Process for congregational advocacy decision-making_Oseh Shalom_2012.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/process-for-congregational-advocacy-decision-making_oseh-shalom_2012-pdf/)
- [Policy on Sign on Letters Petitions and Requests for Endorsement_CBH.pdf](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/policy-on-sign-on-letters-petitions-and-requests-for-endorsement_cbh-pdf/)
- [Board Tikkun Olam Approval Process_CJC.doc](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/leadership-resource/board-tikkun-olam-approval-process_cjc-doc/)

## Resources

- [Collective Liberation Is Our Work: Diversity in the Jewish Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/collective-liberation-is-our-work-diversity-in-the-jewish-community/) - In this can’t-miss Evolve web conversation, Deitra Reiser, Ph.D., explores the meaning and importance of pursuing diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging in Jewish spaces. She eloquently defends Jewish investment in DEI initiatives at a time when such efforts face growing governmental hostility. Pressing forward, Reiser asserts, is ultimately about pursuing collective liberation.
- [A Memo to Reconstructionist Communities from Reconstructing Judaism’s Israel Affairs Specialist](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/a-memo-to-reconstructionist-communities-from-reconstructing-judaisms-israel-affairs-specialist/) - Rabbi Maurice Harris, Reconstructing Judaism's Israel Affairs Specialist writes this memo to Reconstructionist communities discussing the events of Oct. 7, the International Court of Justice preliminary ruling on the genocide accusation, the future of what Israel will look like, and reminds us how we can help in this moment.
- [What MLK’s Friendship with Stanley Levison Can Teach Us Today](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/what-mlks-friendship-with-stanley-levinson-can-teach-us-today/) - The national holiday celebrating the life of Martin Luther King Jr. offers ample opportunities for service, action and learning. There’s so much to learn about King’s too-short time on Earth. Too often, school lessons or public discussion of King sticks to a few words from a single speech, leaving out much of King’s complexity, intellectual
- [Antisemitism: Understanding Our Contemporary Moment](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/antisemitism-understanding-our-contemporary-moment/) - Thursdays, January 15, 22, 29 @ 8:00pm-9:30pm We are witnessing a resurgence of antisemitism across the political spectrum that, for many Jews, has strained relationships, communities, and political alliances. Yet the way we speak about antisemitism often fails to capture the multiple identities we hold as Jews, particularly racial identity. What does antisemitism look like
- [Akedah & Resilience](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/akedah-resilience/) - There are many explanations why on Rosh Hashanah, we read the story of the Akedah, wherein Abraham is tested by binding his son, Isaac, on an altar for ritual slaughter. Largely, these detail the lessons we learn from Abraham’s perspective and the oath that God’s messenger shares with him. But what lesson might we learn from Isaac?
- [The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College’s Move from the Inner-city to the Suburbs](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/the-reconstructionist-rabbinical-colleges-move-from-the-inner-city-to-the-suburbs/) - Why continue to work on reparations when the environment seems so hostile to all things progressive? For one thing, the hardest hits coming down at the moment have the heaviest impact on people of color, whether it’s roundups and deportations of immigrants, abolition of DEI programs and bashing people of color as DEI hires, layoffs of civil service workers in federal jobs, banishing of Black history curriculums, shutdowns of abortion services or the ramping up of dirty fossil fuels. The hits aren’t equally distributed, and neither are the costs. We’re not starting on an equal playing field since so much that’s already owed is past due; therefore, the need to struggle for past-due reparations th
- [A Guide to Racial Justice Work in Your Congregation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/a-guide-to-racial-justice-work-in-your-congregation/) - "We strive to become an anti-racist organization. We commit to creating a model of antiracism within our organization and to cultivating a shared commitment to this work among our staff and board." Reconstructing Judaism Strategic Plan Change is possible. We have successfully transformed our Jewish communities in the past. Those who were once pushed to
- [Shavuot and Accessing Torah for Tumultuous Times](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/shavuot-and-the-accessing-torah-for-tumultuous-times/) - “I know our ancestors had it rough, but honestly, what we’re living through feels almost unreal.” Do you find yourself feeling this in your heart? We thought the vulnerability we experienced after the Tree of Life shooting in October 2018 rocked our personal and communal lives enough. But just as we were catching our breath,
- [Trudging Towards Revelation, Climbing the Golden Mountain](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/trudging-towards-revelation-climbing-the-golden-mountain/) - Forty-nine days ago, we began an annual journey, and now we’ve arrived. We’re here at the foot of Mount Sinai. The Jewish people prepare for this moment
- [2024 Auerbach Launch and Ignition Grant Recipients](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/2024-auerbach-launch-and-ignition-grant-recipients/) - Reconstructing Judaism’s Auerbach Launch Grants and Ignition Grants support rabbinical students and rabbis in reconstructing the Jewish landscape to be more inclusive and engaging. This year’s winners point the way to a dynamic Jewish future. Auerbach Launch Grants Coming soon! Auerbach Grants Lev DiPaolo Lev’s innovative project is called: “Kol HaNeshamah“, and it aims to
- [Yom Ha’atzma’ut Programming](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/yom-haatzmaut-programming/) - For our youth educators, we are proud to share a downloadable resource document prepared by Rabbi Lily Solochek, Director of the Wenger-Markowitz Family Education Initiative. It provides many ideas for the various directions that can be used to approach this holiday. The storybooks suggested have recommended ages, and the activities can be structured or adapted
- [Yom HaShoah Resource: Profile of Jean Améry](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/yom-hashoah-resource-profile-of-jean-amery/) - The Department for Thriving Communities is sharing a printable resource that congregations and individuals are welcome to use in connection with this year’s observance of Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day), which begins at sundown on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 and continues through the day on Thursday, April 24. The resource profiles the Austrian essayist, novelist
- [If God Had Only Given Us Reparations – Dayenu](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/if-god-had-only-given-us-reparations-dayenu/) - Building on the momentum of last year’s Haggadah supplement “Adding JOC Voices to Your Haggadah,” the Tikkun Olam Commission has developed a new Passover resource for 2025: If God Had Only Given Us Reparations – Dayenu. This resource applies the practice of reparations to our Reconstructionist Jewish liturgy as a form of spiritual and political
- [Embracing Complexity and Empathy in the Passover Seder](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/embracing-complexity-and-empathy-in-the-passover-seder/) - The Passover seder is the most widely observed Jewish ritual. Food and family are, of course, big reasons why even the most secular Jews take a seat at the table. Yet many of us are also drawn into the conversation, one that spans generations and is marked by complexity and multiplicity. I invite you to
- [Passover and the Power of Memory](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/passover-and-the-power-of-memory/) - The joy of Passover comes from celebrating the our people’s liberation, but how can we celebrate in these troubling times?
- [Got Kubbah? Add this Iraqi dish to your Passover Menu](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/making-kubbah-patata-for-passover/) - During Passover, in my family’s Iraqi kitchen, we always make kubbah. For us, like in other middle eastern kitchens, Kubbah is a big deal. Its not just a food, it’s an artform, and it’s eaten year-round, cooked, or fried, with different fillings and wrappings, seasonings and textures.
- [Expanding on the Telling of the Passover Story](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/expanding-on-the-telling-of-the-passover-story/) - One question Jews often ask each other the morning after the first Passover Seder is how late their respective evenings lasted. The responses can sound like brags: “It was 10 p.m. before we even got to the matzah ball soup!” There’s a history to this question. It is not asked only because of the length
- [A Holiday of Opposites for an Upside-Down World](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/a-holiday-of-opposites-for-an-upside-down-world/) - Rabbi Barbara Penzner writes that Purim is ultimately about the power of human beings to do what's right.
- [Purim’s Best-Kept Secret](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/purims-best-kept-secret/) - If you are not now nor ever have been a Purim person, chances are that you have not experienced the full Purim. And it’s not easy. Purim demands maximum effort. Unlike Hanukkah and Rosh Hashanah, you can’t go halfway with Purim and expect to be satisfied. How does one up their Purim game? My experience
- [An Introduction to Reconstructionist Judaism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/an-introduction-to-reconstructionist-judaism/) - Learn about the origins and history of the Reconstructionist movement; key differences between contemporary Jewish movements; values and guiding ideas of the Reconstructionist movement; Reconstructionist ideology on various topics such as God, Israel, and Peoplehood; important figures and milestones for the movement, and more. This resource includes information for educators, leaders, families and students along
- [RRC Music Collective performs "Kevod malkhut’kha yomeiru"](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/rrc-music-collective-performs-kevod-malkhutkha-yomeiru/) - The RRC Music Collective is a group of students at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College who have formed a community around creating and playing songs together. This a cappella performance is an interpretation of the Ashrei prayer, which itself is traditionally recited three times daily and drawn from Psalm 145. The members sing, “Kevod malkhut’kha yomeiru.
- [Norms for Israel Convening](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/norms-for-israel-convening/) - Back to event home page We seek to build and maintain covenantal community across difference based on shared values and principles, including the centrality of relationships, and mutually agreed-upon behavior (also known as norms). Variations of the norms presented below have been created for and used by other Reconstructionist convenings, including in-person (conventions, civil rights
- [In the Depths of Winter, Life Begins Awakening](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/in-the-depths-of-winter-life-begins-awakening/) - "The New of Trees" offers profound insights about our inner landscapes.
- [Congregational Application for Affiliation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/congregational-application-affiliation/) - This membership form lets congregations and havurot apply for membership in Reconstructing Judaism.
- [Let's Make Date & Nut Marble Treats for Tu B'Shvat](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/lets-make-date-nut-marble-treats-for-tu-bshvat/) - Learn to make date and nut marble treats for your Tu B’Shavt gathering.
- [Interactive Workshop: Progressive Israel Network – The Upcoming World Zionist Congress Elections and Why They Matter Urgently​](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/progressive-israel-network-the-upcoming-world-zionist-congress-elections-and-why-they-matter-urgently/) - Every Monday, the Ritualwell team brings our community together for a 15-minute minyan focused on healing prayers. Join Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer, Ritualwell's Director of Virtual Content and Programs, for an extended 45-minute opportunity to share prayers for peace and healing, as well as prompts to inspire your own prayers through writing or art. No prior artistic experience is required; our emphasis is on creative expression. Please bring a journal and pen as well as any visual art materials (such as paper, colored pencils, watercolors, etc.) that you may wish to use.
- [Interactive Workshop: Joint Israel Commission: Shutafut (Partnerships)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/joint-israel-commission-shutafut-partnerships/) - https://www.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/joint-israel-commission-shutafut-partnerships/
- [Interactive Workshop: Reflecting on Israel with Evolve Authors](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/reflecting-on-israel-with-evolve-authors-2/) - Every Monday, the Ritualwell team brings our community together for a 15-minute minyan focused on healing prayers. Join Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer, Ritualwell's Director of Virtual Content and Programs, for an extended 45-minute opportunity to share prayers for peace and healing, as well as prompts to inspire your own prayers through writing or art. No prior artistic experience is required; our emphasis is on creative expression. Please bring a journal and pen as well as any visual art materials (such as paper, colored pencils, watercolors, etc.) that you may wish to use.
- [Interactive Workshop: Thriving Communities, Complicated Times: leading through highs, lows, and everything in between](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/thriving-communities-complicated-times/) - Every Monday, the Ritualwell team brings our community together for a 15-minute minyan focused on healing prayers. Join Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer, Ritualwell's Director of Virtual Content and Programs, for an extended 45-minute opportunity to share prayers for peace and healing, as well as prompts to inspire your own prayers through writing or art. No prior artistic experience is required; our emphasis is on creative expression. Please bring a journal and pen as well as any visual art materials (such as paper, colored pencils, watercolors, etc.) that you may wish to use.
- [Interactive Workshop: The Relationship Between the anti-Israel Upswell and Antisemitism​](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/interactive-workshop-the-relationship-between-the-anti-israel-upswell-and-antisemitism/) - Every Monday, the Ritualwell team brings our community together for a 15-minute minyan focused on healing prayers. Join Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer, Ritualwell's Director of Virtual Content and Programs, for an extended 45-minute opportunity to share prayers for peace and healing, as well as prompts to inspire your own prayers through writing or art. No prior artistic experience is required; our emphasis is on creative expression. Please bring a journal and pen as well as any visual art materials (such as paper, colored pencils, watercolors, etc.) that you may wish to use.
- [Israel Activities & The Reconstructionist Movement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/israel-activities-the-reconstructionist-movement/) - Rabbi Maurice Harris, Associate Director for Thriving Communities and Israel Affairs Specialist, researched and compiled this report on the breadth and variety of Israel-related activities taking place in many different organizational arenas across the Reconstructionist movement from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2022.
- [A Dream Deeply Rooted in the American Dream](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/a-dream-deeply-rooted-in-the-american-dream/) - Martin Luther King Jr.'s most famous speech is excerpted in the Reconstructionist prayerbook.
- [King and the Power of Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/king-and-the-power-of-community/) - Each year, as we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we often focus on him as a singular leader, a towering figure in the civil rights Movement. Yet this perspective risks overshadowing the reality that no movement is built on one person alone. King himself understood that his influence was made possible by the interconnected
- [JEDI Congregational Theory of Change](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/jedi-congregational-theory-of-change/) - Change is always happening. Our communities and their cultures are in a constant state of being and becoming, learning from the patterns of the past and adapting to the new circumstances of the present.
- [Hanukkah: Small Acts of Courage Illuminate the World with Kindness](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/hanukkah-small-acts-of-courage-illuminated-the-world-with-kindness-and-love/) - Sometimes, small acts of courage and kindness matter more than storybook bravery
- [Brave Women, Grown-Up Stories and, Perhaps, a Hanukkah for Our Times](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/brave-women-grown-up-stories-and-perhaps-a-hanukkah-for-our-times/) - What can the sacrifices depicted in Hanukkah's more Grown Up Stories Tell Us About What We Might Risk Today?
- [Hanukkah and Christmas: What Makes Each Special](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/hanukkah-and-christmas-what-makes-each-special/) - A rabbi and scholar teaches her grandchildren - who are being raised Catholic - about Hanukkah and Christmas.
- [Interactive Workshop: Reconstructionist Roots of “Covenantal Community”​](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/reconstructionist-roots-of-covenantal-community/) - Every Monday, the Ritualwell team brings our community together for a 15-minute minyan focused on healing prayers. Join Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer, Ritualwell's Director of Virtual Content and Programs, for an extended 45-minute opportunity to share prayers for peace and healing, as well as prompts to inspire your own prayers through writing or art. No prior artistic experience is required; our emphasis is on creative expression. Please bring a journal and pen as well as any visual art materials (such as paper, colored pencils, watercolors, etc.) that you may wish to use.
- [Aruk - Iraqi Vegetable Fried Patties](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/aruk-iraqi-vegetable-fried-patties/) - Have you ever made aruk for Hanukkah? While there is no requirement to make any specific dish on Hanukkah, it’s customary for us to remember the miracle of the oil by eating fried foods. A well-loved recipe in my house, aruk are Iraqi vegetable fried patties – very similar to their cousin, the latkes. Aruk are delicious, easy to make and will be a great addition to your latke platter.
- [Interactive Workshop: Expanding the Conversation on Israel-Palestine: Toward a New Reconstructionist Approach](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/expanding-the-conversation-on-israel-palestine/) - Every Monday, the Ritualwell team brings our community together for a 15-minute minyan focused on healing prayers. Join Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer, Ritualwell's Director of Virtual Content and Programs, for an extended 45-minute opportunity to share prayers for peace and healing, as well as prompts to inspire your own prayers through writing or art. No prior artistic experience is required; our emphasis is on creative expression. Please bring a journal and pen as well as any visual art materials (such as paper, colored pencils, watercolors, etc.) that you may wish to use.
- [Mandate for Tikkun Olam Commission](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/mandate-tikkun-olam-commission/) - The Tikkun Olam Commission is a structure of the Reconstructionist movement comprised of rabbis and lay people who work on social justice issues on behalf of the movement. It is the primary body vested with responsibility for formulating and vetting positions for the Reconstructionist movement, for consideration by the board of governors and the plenum, and for coordination of tikkun olam work with the RRA and other bodies.
- [Interactive Workshop: Holding Each Other' Creative Space with Ritualwell](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/interactive-workshop-holding-each-other-creative-space-with-ritualwell/) - Every Monday, the Ritualwell team brings our community together for a 15-minute minyan focused on healing prayers. Join Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer, Ritualwell's Director of Virtual Content and Programs, for an extended 45-minute opportunity to share prayers for peace and healing, as well as prompts to inspire your own prayers through writing or art. No prior artistic experience is required; our emphasis is on creative expression. Please bring a journal and pen as well as any visual art materials (such as paper, colored pencils, watercolors, etc.) that you may wish to use.
- [What do You Love About the Reconstructionist Movement?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/what-do-you-love-about-the-reconstructionist-movement/) - What do you love about the Reconstructionist Movement? I’m interested to know.
- [What is the Halacha for Racial Justice?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/what-is-the-halacha-for-racial-justice/) - During the uprisings and protests in Minneapolis, many white people asked themselves,“What do I do in this moment?” White people began thinking about anti-racism.White people began reading, debating, listening, arguing.All of this is good.But we can do more. “What do I do in this moment?” This is the question that Jewish tradition grapples with.In the
- [Thanksgiving in the Reconstructionist Prayerbook](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/thanksgiving-in-the-reconstructionist-prayerbook/) - This selection from Kol Haneshamah illustrates how generations of American Jews have claimed Thanksgiving as their own.
- [Gratitude and Hospitality: A Jewish Reflection on Thanksgiving](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/gratitude-and-hospitality-a-jewish-reflection-on-thanksgiving/) - Rabbi Sandra Lawson offers a Jewish and justice focus on Thanksgiving.
- [Breaking the Carousel of Fear and Misunderstanding](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/breaking-the-carousel-of-fear-and-misunderstanding/) - Rabbi Sandra Lawson writes of the inherent worth and respect due to every human being.
- [The Expansiveness of the Unwritten: Torah as an Invitation to Imagine](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/the-expansiveness-of-the-unwritten-torah-as-an-invitation-to-imagine/) - Rabbi and sofered Rec Richman writes that Simkhat Torah is a celebration of our tradition’s endless invitation to keep imagining.
- [Strange and Stranger: Reading Torah’s end and beginning on Simchat Torah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/strange-and-stranger-reading-torahs-end-and-beginning-on-simchat-torah/) - Elsie Stern, Ph.D., upacks what she describes as the downright strangness of Torah's conclusion and beggining, in that order.
- [What’s in a Sukkah?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/whats-in-a-sukkah/) - Talmudic specifications for the sukkah have much to teach us about embracing everyone.
- [The Ancient Immersive Theater of Sukkot](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/the-ancient-immersive-theater-of-sukkot/) - Rabbi Nicole Fix explains what theater and Sukkot have in common.
- [Exploding Our Metaphors of Sin and Repentance](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/exploding-our-metaphors-of-sin-and-repentance/) - Explore the concepts of sin and repentance from a contemporary perspective.
- [Turning Earthward for Yom Kippur](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/turning-earthward-for-yom-kippur/) - Rabbi Asher Sofman writes about what each of us can do to facilitate the nourishment and growth of every part of Creation.
- [Changing Our Inner Lives: Confronting the ‘Near Enemies’ of ‘Teshuvah’](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/changing-our-inner-lives-confronting-the-near-enemies-of-teshuvah/) - Forgiving yourself is a key aspect of teshuvah
- [Life Is with People: What the Days of Awe Teach Us About Needing Each Other](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/life-is-with-people-what-the-days-of-awe-teach-us-about-needing-each-other/) - Rabbi Marjorie Berman explores the loneliness epidemic, the work of Robert Putnam and the Days of Awe's healing potential.
- [A Mizrakhi Fish Recipe for Rosh Hashana](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/a-mizrahi-fish-recipe-for-rosh-hashana/) - A Mizrahi Fish Recipe for Rosh Hashanah Shanah Tovah! Enrich your holiday experience with our dynamic resources. Mizrakhi Jews, originally from countries such as Iraq and Iran, have a colorful and unique way of celebrating Jewish holidays with food. I’m delighted to share a special Mizrakhi fish recipe that my family enjoys every year on
- [Four Words of Teshuvah: Stop, Regret, Say, Commit](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/four-words-of-teshuvah-stop-regret-say-commit/) - Stop. Regret. Say. Commit: Rabbi Greg Hersh explains how these words can lead to personal growth.
- [Tashlikh: Letting Go](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/tashlikh-letting-go/) - Rabbi Nathan Martin (RRC '06) from Temple Beth Israel of Media offers a Reconstructionist approach to a traditional Rosh HaShanah ritual of tashlikh.
- [Tzedek Circles](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/tzedek-circles/) - This Zoom series, starting in March, will introduce five social justice initiatives from trusted partner organizations.
- [‘Embracing Our Holy Deadlines’: A Reconstructionist Take on Elul](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/embracing-our-holy-deadlines-a-reconstructionist-take-on-elul/) - This Reconstructionist take on Elul takes inspiration from the author's foray into journalism
- [From Communal Sorrow to Collective Healing](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/from-communal-sorrow-to-collective-healing/) - How Tisha B'Av Can Help Us Find Strength in One Another
- [Ways to Help in this Time of War in Israel and Palestine:​](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/war-in-israel-and-palestine-how-you-can-help/) - While all of us on staff at Reconstructing Judaism salute the life-saving and difficult work of these organizations, as is our standard practice, we make the disclaimer here that the views or statements expressed by outside organizations may or may not reflect the official policies and positions of Reconstructing Judaism. The following organizations are listed
- [Pondering the Meaning of Tisha B'Av](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/pondering-meaning-tisha-bav/) - This excerpt from The Guide to Jewish Practice delves into the holiday’s meaning and message.
- [How Learning Across Difference Can Be Revelatory this Shavuot](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/how-learning-across-difference-can-be-revelatory-this-shavuot/) - Revelation this Year? Especially in difficult times, we can learn from those who think and believe differently from ourselves.
- [DIY Tikkun Leil Shavuot](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/diy-tikkun-leil-shavuot/) - Looking to participate in a Tikkun Leil Shavuot but don’t want to leave home? No problem, we’ve got you covered.
- [Shavuot Theology](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/shavuot-theology/) - How are we to understand the traditional claim that the Torah is divinely revealed? And what exactly is the Torah that was revealed? Rabbi Jacob Staub examines Reconstructionist theology through the lens of the holiday of Shavuot. This article is excerpted from the Guide to Jewish Practice.
- [Shavuot Milk & Honey Torah Roll Cake](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/shavuot-torah-roll-cake/) - Make room for a new dessert at your Shavuot table, right between the cheesecake and blintzes – a Torah Scroll roll cake of milk and honey.
- [Ritualwell’s “Count on Telling Your Story” Writing Workshops Through the Omer Series](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/ritualwells-count-on-telling-your-story-writing-workshops-through-the-omer-series/) - “Count on Telling Your Story: Writing Workshops Through the Omer” showcases Ritualwell’s unique online community and the ways in which we draw upon Jewish wisdom to inspire creativity.
- [Shavuot Study with Hashivenu & Evolve](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/diy-tikkun-leil-shavuot-with-hashivenu-evolve/) - For Shavuot, we’ve gathered a selection of interviews with authors that provide plenty of material for self-study or group discussion. 
- [2024 Live Online Events for Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha'atzmaut](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/2024-live-online-events-for-yom-hazikaron-and-yom-haatzmaut/) - We are approaching two of the most important days on the Israeli calendar – Yom HaZikaron (Day of Remembrance for Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terrorism) and Yom Ha’atzmaut (Independence Day). Yom HaZikaron will begin at sunset on Sunday, May 12 continues throughout the day of Monday, May 13. Here are two online programs that may be
- [K'doshim and our Ethical Commitments](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/kdoshim-and-our-ethical-commitments/) - Rabbi Alex Weissman at the RRC, emails members of the college community with words of Torah every week. Here’s his email from May 10, 2024.
- [Blessings and Burdens](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/blessings-and-burdens/)
- [New Reconstructionist Haggadah Supplements](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/new-reconstructionist-haggadah-supplements/) - In January 2023, the Reconstructionist Movement completed a multi-year process of passing a movement-wide resolution on reparations. To support the commitments of the resolution, the Tikkun Olam Commission is creating a new series of supplements to the Passover Haggadah that can be helpful entry points to the reckoning and reflection work of reparations at your Passover Seder. 
- [Passover and Bringing Our Freedom to Life](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/passover-and-bringing-our-freedom-to-life/) - In our day, many folks think that freedom means unconstrained personal expression. What is freedom, really?
- [A History of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from a Progressive Zionist Perspective (4-part video series)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/israeli-palestinian-history-progressive-zionist-perspective/) - This four-part series of video presentations is based on an online course developed by Rabbi Maurice Harris, Reconstructing Judaism’s Associate Director for Thriving Communities and Israel Affairs Specialist. The video recordings of the four 90-minute sessions offered below were presented in February 2024 as part of a program sponsored by West End Synagogue (New York, NY, USA). There is also a “bonus” supplemental video about the impacts of Stalin and the USSR on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict included below.
- [Rabbi Shawn Zevit performs "Ana El Na (Healing Prayer)" on acoustic guitar](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/rabbi-shawn-zevit-performs-ana-el-na-healing-prayer-on-acoustic-guitar/)
- [Rabbi Shawn Zevit debuts his original song, "My Prayer"](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/rabbi-shawn-zevit-debuts-his-original-song-my-prayer/)
- [Is there Holiness in the face of a flower?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/is-there-holiness-in-the-face-of-a-flower/) - During the weekly Ritualwell “Holding Each Other” gathering, Poet Ellen Blum Barish invites the readers to see flowers in a new way and to draw on everyday objects to find their own creativity.
- [Against Haman, Antisemitism and Blueberry Bagels](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/against-haman-antisemitism-and-blueberry-bagels/) - Purim is in just a few days and Rabbi Seth Goldstein (aka @rabbi_360 on Instagram & TikTok) from Temple Beth Hatfiloh in Olympia, Wash. is here to remind us how we drown out the sound of bad things – from both the Purim story and in our daily lives! Share the video with everyone in your life
- [2023 Auerbach Launch and Ignition Grant Recipients](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/2023-auerbach-launch-and-ignition-grant-recipients/) - Reconstructing Judaism’s Auerbach Launch Grants and Ignition Grants support rabbinical students and rabbis in reconstructing the Jewish landscape to be more inclusive and engaging. This year’s winners point the way to a dynamic Jewish future. Auerbach Launch Grants Chloe Zelkha Chloe is a third-year rabbinical student at RRC. After years working as an organizer through
- [Mizrakhi Purim Treats](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/mizrakhi-purim-treats/) - 4 cups flour1 stick margarine1/2 sugar1 tbsp yeast2 eggspinch of salt1/4 cup water Filling1 pack of date paste1 tbsp oil1 tbsp water1 tbsp cinnamon Topping1 eggsesame seeds Instructions Create the dough:Mix all ingredients together to a soft, lightly sticky dough. if needed more water, add a little more. Cover and set aside to rise
- [Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer recites her poem, "For Bob" and offers a writing prompt](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/gabrielle-kaplan-mayer-recites-her-poem-for-bob-and-offers-a-writing-prompt/) - Writer Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer shares a poem and writing prompt that invites us to process loss and appreciate the presence of those who anchor our lives. 
- [Billboard Blues](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/billboard-blues/) - Poet Darcy Graberstein describes how a billboard on a New Jersey highway brought emotions to the surface regarding October 7 and the hostages remaining in Gaza. And she provides a writing prompt: How are you filing your void, right now?
- [Poet Tzivia Gover recites "The Word is Wind" and offers a prompt encouraging you to put pen to paper](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/poet-tzivia-gover-recites-the-word-is-wind-and-offers-a-prompt-encouraging-you-to-put-pen-to-paper/) - Poet Tzivia Gover recites “The Word is Wind” and offers a writing prompt to tap into your own creativity.
- [Rabbi Solomon Hoffman performs an original setting of Psalm 130, Kivti Havaya](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/rabbi-solomon-hoffman-performs-an-original-setting-of-psalm-130-kivti-havaya/) - Accordion in hand, Rabbi Solomon Hoffman talks about the relationship between waiting and hoping and offers an original take on Psalm 130.
- [Evonne Marzouk shares her new poem, “Things I Need to Hear Right Now After Nine Days In Jerusalem"](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/evonne-marzouk-shares-her-new-poem-things-i-need-to-hear-right-now-after-nine-days-in-jerusalem/) - During Ritualwell’s weekly virtual “Holding Each Other” gathering, author Evonne Marzouk reads her poem, “Things I Need to Hear Right Now After Nine Days in Jerusalem.”
- [History of the Israel and Palestine Conflict with Rabbi Maurice Harris](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/history-of-the-israel-and-palestine-conflict-with-rabbi-maurice-harris/) - Rabbi Maurice Harris Associate Director for Thriving Communities and Israel Affairs Specialist Rabbi Maurice Harris discussed the Israel and Palestine conflict in this four-part series with West End Synagogue in NYC.
- [Cantor Karen Webber shares two poems, moving us from darkness to light](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/canter-karen-webber-shares-two-poems-moving-us-from-darkness-to-light/) - Karen Weber, a poet and performance artist, enacts and, at times, sings, two linked poems, “No Cakewalk” and “L’chaim” that mine the emotional depths, describing horror with pinpoint detail and, somehow, bringing us back to the light with a jubilant wedding celebration. Sourced from Reconstructing Judaism.org 
- [Rabbi Joshua Boettiger recites "Inventory" by Dorianne Laux and offers a creative writing prompt](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/rabbi-joshua-boettiger-recites-inventory-by-dorianne-laux-and-offers-a-creative-writing-prompt/) - During a Ritualwell “Holding Each Other” virtual gathering, Rabbi Joshua Boettiger offers writing prompts that ask us to investigate the stories that different parts of our bodies may be telling us.
- [Betsy Teutsch reflects on creating art for the Reconstructionist Mahzor](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/betsy-teutsch-reflects-on-creating-art-for-the-reconstructionist-mahzor/) - During Ritualwell’s weekly “Holding Each Other” program, artist Betsy Teutsch recounts the process of illustrating the Reconstructionist prayerbook, sharing some light during a dark time.
- [The World As Sacred Space: Judaic Teachings and Ecological Consciousness](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/world-sacred-space-judaic-teachings-and-ecological-consciousness/) - Element of Jewish tradition see the world as inherently sacred. Rabbi Fred Scherlinder Dobb mines these sources as a source for Jewish environmental ethics and theology.
- [Tu B’Shvat: A Reconstructionist Guide](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/tu-bshvat-a-reconstructionist-guide/) - Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein explains how getting in touch with our inner mad scientist can connect us to Reconstructionist approaches to Tu B'Shvat.
- [Holding On To Hope](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/holding-on-to-hope/) - Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association hosted the event "Holding on to Hope" on Wednesday, Jan. 3 featuring the work of three courageous and dedicated activists for co-existence and shared society in Israel and Palestine.
- [How To Pray While The World Burns](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/how-to-pray-while-the-world-burns/) - Go outside.Find a patch of grass, sand, dirt.Sit, kneel, place a hand or justA finger to the soft earth.Feel it pulse back. Open your palms and divineThe words creased between.Rub the specks of dirtBetween your fingers,See how they cling to skin,How they listen in their soft-rough way. The earth will hold you betterThan God can.God
- [Shared Values and Multiple Opinions in Reconstructionist Congregations](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/shared-values-and-multiple-opinions-in-reconstructionist-congregations/) - A Message from Reconstructing Judaism’s Israel Affairs Specialist, Rabbi Maurice Harris: On December 17, 2023, I led a webinar for members of Reconstructionist congregations called “Shared Values and Multiple Opinions: Reconstructionist Congregations and the Israel-Hamas War.” The main goal I had for the webinar was to share some important things I’ve observed in the course
- [JDAIM - February 2024](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/jdaim-february-2024/) - Since 2009, a growing number of Jewish communities have marked February as Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAIM). This coming year, Thriving Communities would like to celebrate how YOU have adapted your communities to make them more accessible to and inclusive of those of us with disabilities. How do we want to celebrate? By sharing photos,
- [Steps Congregations Can Take to Improve Safety and Security for All Their Members, Visitors, and Staff](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/steps-congregations-can-take-to-improve-safety-and-security-for-all-their-members-visitors-and-staff/) - By the Department for Thriving Communities The Department for Thriving Communities is pleased to share this basic guide to improve safety in our congregations. The resources Download PDF Getting Started Worksheet and advice provided here are drawn from many sources, including: government agencies, professional security experts, racial-justice-focused non-profit organizations, other religious denominations within and beyond the
- [Rabbi Shelly Barnathan sings Mi Shebeirach](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/rabbi-shelly-barnathan-sings-mi-shebeirach/) - Focusing intention on courage of all kinds, Rabbi Shelly Barnathan chants Mi Shebeirach, asking for all of us to experience the renewal of body and spirit.
- [For Hanukkah, to Take Through the Winter](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/for-hanukkah-to-take-through-the-winter/) - Rabbinical student Talia Werber reads her poem about, partially, how the lights of Hanukkah can inspire and sustain us through a winter of darkness. For Hanukkah, to Take Through the Winter I like to watch the flames against the wall, not the window. I like to watch the flames against the wall, 
- [Words of Torah: Integrating Multiple Perspectives into a Narrative](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/words-of-torah-integrating-multiple-perspectives-into-a-narrative/) - Every week, Rabbi Alex Weissman, director of Mekhinah, and cultural and spiritual life at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, emails members of the college community with words of Torah. Here’s his email from Dec. 1, 2023. Dear RRC Community, In case it is not yet clear, I will now be sending you weekly emails with Torah,
- [V'Achshav Or](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/vachshav-or/) - We all need more light in our lives. So this year, as you kindle your Hanukkiah, hold the intention to bring light to your day and to our world.
- [The Alacrity of Avraham – Parashat Vayeira 5784](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/the-alacrity-of-avraham-parashat-vayeira-5784/) - Rabbi Micah Geurin Weiss shares this D'var Torah from "Recking with Racism and Imagining a Path Forward" Weekend at Bet Am Shalom Reconstructionist Synagogue.
- ["My Own Thinking Heart" a poem by Rabbi Haviva Ner-David](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/my-own-thinking-heart-a-poem-by-rabbi-haviva-ner-david/) - Rabbi Haviva Ner-David shares all of the pain she is holding in this difficult moment before reciting her new poem "My Own Thinking Heart" and offering a creative writing prompt. Taken from Ritualwell's Nov. 17 virtual gathering, "Holding Each Other."
- ["Dusk in October 2023" and "The Israeli Flag Has No Red Stripes" by Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/poems-by-rabbi-alex-lazarus-klein/) - At Ritualwell’s weekly “Holding Each Other” virtual event, Rabbi Alex Lazurus-Klein read two poems, one written during the Second Intifada and the other composed in the harrowing days following October 7.
- [Prayers for Healing](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/prayers-for-healing/) - In this excerpt from Ritualwell’s weekly “Holding Each Other” gathering, Rabbi Janet Madden chants the Oseh Shalom and Mi Shebeirach prayers. Madden lovingly and soulfully expresses what so many yearn for: peace and healing.
- ["Hoshia Na" by Rabbi Annie Lewis](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/hoshia-na-by-rabbi-annie-lewis/) - Rabbi Annie Lewis Rabbi at Shaare Torah in Gaithersburg, MD We left the embrace of the sukkah for the shelter of Shabbat Hoshana And they blasted away the wall Hoshana Please reopen Your gates of salvation Hoshana Can anyone pick the lock? Hoshana For Your sake and Hoshana For ours Hoshana For fathers gunned down in
- ["Mirrors" - a Poem by Cathleen Cohen](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/mirrors-a-poem-by-cathleen-cohen/) - Cathleen Cohen recites her new poem "Mirrors," as part of Ritualwell's October 19th virtual gathering, "Holding Each Other: Israel on our Hearts."
- [Braided Together: Taking Challah Ritual for Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/braided-together-taking-challah-ritual-for-israel/) - בְּמצְוֹתָיו וְצִוָנוּ לְהַפְרִישׁ חַלָּה מִן הָעִסָּה Barukh ata Adonai Eloheinu melekh ha’olam asher kidshanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu l’hafreesh challah min ha’eesah. Blessed are You, Lord our God, Ruler of the Universe, who has sanctified us with commandments, and commanded us to separate challah. Hold the piece of dough and say “harei zo challah” (This is challah). 
- [Holding Torah in Our Hands](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/holding-torah-in-our-hands/) - When I was a kid, I remember the moment on Simchat Torah when the Torah scroll would be unrolled around the sanctuary. We would sit in the middle of the room with our parents carefully holding the parchment around us. Even as a child, I knew the rules: Don’t put your fingers near the letters.
- [The Ethical legacy of Sukkot: Improving the Lives of All](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/the-ethical-legacy-of-sukkot-improving-the-lives-of-all/) - Sukkot’s ancient roots implore Jews to serve the greater good of all.
- [The Founding of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/founding-reconstructionist-rabbinical-college/) - A history of the beginnings of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College
- [Bolo: Sweet Bread for break fast  ​](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/bolo-sweet-bread-for-break-fast/) - Are you looking to bake something new and sweet for the High Holidays? Check out this mizrakhi treat, Bolo, to use for your break fast!
- [Can a Reconstructionist Sin?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/can-reconstructionist-sin/) - Since Reconstructionist Judaism affirms a conception of God as a force, power or process — but not as a supernatural Being who can be addressed and can respond — what happens to the notion of sin? Rabbi Richard Hirsh argues that Reconstructionist theology makes it more, not less, important that we take on the responsibility for judgment, atonement, apology and repentance
- [Sin and Forgiveness](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/sin-and-forgiveness/) - A Jewish understanding of sin, repentance, and forgiveness
- [Addressing Race as a Jewish Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/addressing-race-jewish-community/) - As a time to take responsibility for communal wrongs, Yom Kippur calls us to learn about and grapple with issues of race in America.
- [The History of Tisha B'Av](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/history-tisha-bav/) - This excerpt from the Guide to Jewish Practice examines the history and evolution of Tisha B’Av.
- [Marking Loss in the Jewish Community](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/marking-loss-in-the-jewish-community/) - Rabbi Alex Lazurus-Klein shows how a Reconstructionist prayer helps him confront profound loss.
- [See you at Sinai](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/see-you-at-sinai/) - At Shavuot, every Jew throughout time stands at the foot of Mount Sinai to recive the Torah. That powerful metaphor — passed down from an ancient midrash, or biblical interpretation — should provide every Jew a way to connect with a holiday that re-enacts God’s revelation.
- [How Jews Move Their Hands](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/how-jews-move-their-hands/) - This lively teaching chironomy, talmudic gestures, shtetl dance, and hassidic prayer as well as Jewish teachings about the human hand.
- [Israel's History through Stamps](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/israels-history-through-stamps/) - Learning Activity: Yom Ha'atzmaut / Israel Independence Day
- [A History of Reconstructionist Zionism](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/history-reconstructionist-zionism/) - Rabbi David Teutsch reviews an 80-year span of Reconstructionist approaches to Zionism and the State of Israel.
- [Kavannah for Washing Hands in a Time of Climate Change](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/kavanah-for-washing-hands-in-time-of-climate-change/) - Washing our hands is an ancient Jewish practice, going back to the days of the Temple, when the priests purified themselves before performing rituals. Today, we are also called to wash and purify our hands before we perform rituals such as the ones during the Passover seder. During the seder, traditionally, we wash our hands three times: No matter how many times we wash your hands during the seder, this kavannah will bring important intention to our ritual washings.
- [The Passover Seder Awaits ...](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/the-passover-seder-awaits/) - Are you looking for a sense of purpose and inspiration? Articulate an organizing principle for your life? Connect to an ancient lineage of courage and hope?
- [2022 Auerbach Launch and Ignition Grant Recipients](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/2021-auerbach-launch-and-ignition-grant-recipients-2/) - Reconstructing Judaism’s Auerbach grants supports rabbinical students and rabbis in reconstructing the Jewish landscape to be more inclusive and engaging. This year’s winners point the way to a dynamic Jewish future.
- [My Purim trajectory was Esther to Haman to “Punk Vashti.”](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/my-purim-trajectory-was-esther-to-haman-to-punk-vashti/) - Rabbi Emily Cohen writes about how, sometimes, dressing up for Purim can help us discover ourselves, or at least a new aspect of ourselves.
- [“Justice. Relationships. Spiritual Practice”](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/justice-relationships-spiritual-practice/) - Rabbi Barbara Penzner Temple Hillel B'nai Torah in West Roxbury, MA Drawing on the wisdom of the Prophet Micah, Rabbi Barbara Penzer shows how loving encounters with others, sensing their pain, can help bring about a more just world. Rabbi Penzer discusses how Micah’s optimism in the face of tragedy speaks directly to our own times.
- [The Dual Meaning of ‘Practice:’ Explaining Judaism to Athletes](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/the-dual-meaning-of-practice-explaining-judaism-to-athletes/) - Bummed that the Super Bowl and NFL season are over? Don’t worry, you can delve into the links between athletic competition, training, spiritual practice and Torah from Rabbi Jason Bonder, an RRC graduate who has played professional baseball and competed in triathlons.
- [A Video Poem for Your Tu B'Shvat Seder](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/a-poem-for-tu-bshvat/) - Tu B'Shvat is known as the Jewish New Year of the trees. The holiday was originally connected to agricultural offerings brought to the ancient Temple in Jerusalem, and this date determined when the crop year would begin and end. It was revitalized by the kabbalists of Tzfat in the 16th century, with the invention of the Tu B'Shvat seder, where we eat and bless symbolic foods and drink four cups of wine. The intention is to draw down divine shefa—abundance or spiritual sustenance—through the act of blessing and eating these foods. Tu B'Shvat was later revived again through the Zionist movement of the 19th and 20th centuries, connecting it to tree planting in the land of Israel. Today, Jewish environmentalists use Tu B'Shvat as a time to reflect on our connection to the earth and our obligations to protect it.
- [Guide to Jewish Practice Resource: Tu B'Shvat](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/guide-to-jewish-practice-resource-tu-bshvat/) - Tu Bishvat takes its name from the date of its observance on the Hebrew calendar—the 15th day of the month of Sh’vat, which falls in January or February. Tu Bishvat is also known as the New Year for Trees, which is how it is described in the Mishna (Rosh Hashana 1.1) because it is the date from which the age of trees was counted, determining when fruit tithes were owed in the days of the Temple. This date was selected because trees flowered after it. In Israel, where the winters are relatively mild, the date also marks the beginning of the tree-planting season.
- [A Reconstructionist Maoz Tzur for Hanukkah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/a-reconstructionist-maoz-tzur-for-hanukkah/) - Maoz Tzur, Rock of Ages, is a Hanukkah classic. The singing of this medieval poem anchors our Hanukkah celebrations and helps us to remember the Jewish people's deliverance from our enemies. However, some of the violent imagery in this 13th-century poem runs contrary to our modern, progressive values. One stanza in particular calls on God to “wreak vengeance on enemies of the Jews.”
- [The Cabin of Candles with George Kelley](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/the-cabin-of-candles-with-george-kelley/) - Using this Hanukkah folktale, George Kelley explores how sometimes when seeking justice we need to find how to get out of our own way.
- [On Hanukkah and the Use of Force with Rabbi Donna Kirshbaum](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/on-hanukkah-and-the-use-of-force-with-rabbi-donna-kirshbaum/) - Despite all the corny but mild holiday songs – not to mention the Sages' emphasis on the miracle of the oil in a desperately dark time – our tradition has never stopped valorizing the combat undertaken by the Maccabees to oust the Seleucid Empire from our Holy Land. We will first consider the historical use of Hanukkah as a template for an armed response but end by learning about a new response to the violence of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as practiced by Women Wage Peace, Israel's largest grassroots peace movement, and its new Palestinian counterpart, Women of the Sun.
- [The Reconstructionist Hanukkah Challenge: What Stories Will You Tell?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/the-reconstructionist-hanukkah-challenge-what-stories-will-you-tell/) - Hanukkah isn’t just play; it is a conversation between the past, present and future. Tradition also holds that Jewish individuals and families tell and retell the story behind the candles. Each of us is invited to seriously explore issues of militarism and assimilation, universalism and particularism.
- [Light One Candle for Justice with Rabbi Lily Solochek](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/light-one-candle-for-justice-with-rabbi-lily-solochek/) - Each night of Hanukkah we add more light to our menorah, and this year we commit to adding more light to the world as well. In this session, we will reflect on the social justice work that we want to engage in and ground our action in spiritual practice. We will use song, learning and ritual to create intentions for each night of Hanukkah that will guide us in our efforts for justice.
- [The Story of Judith with Rabbi Jessica Lott](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/the-story-of-judith-with-rabbi-jessica-lott/)
- [Judaism on the Cutting Edge](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/judaism-cutting-edge/) - Rabbi Deborah Waxman describes how her own experience as a trail blazer was made possible by the Reconstructionist movement’s combination of fearless innovation and pragmatic spirit.
- [For The Sake Of The World](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/sake-world/) - Rabbi Toba Spitzer grapples wtih the traditional notion of Jewish chosenness, arguing that our Torah is integral to the maintenance and perfection of this world—even as we acknowledge that other people’s teachings, other people’s truths, are also a path to redemption. It matters that Judaism survives—not just for our own sake, but because it’s good for the world, and because we have unique work to do.
- [Being Part of the Universe](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/being-part-universe/) - In these excerpts from the diaries of Mordecai Kaplan, the message of Rosh Hashanah is reframed as one of radical responsibility to a higher calling.
- [Preparations During The Month of Elul](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/preparations-during-month-elul/) - The month of Elul, which immediately precedes the Yamim Nora’im, is a time of preparation and introspection with many associated practices.
- [Yamim Nora'im](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/yamim-noraim/) - Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur are for many the most solemn and significant days on the Jewish calendar, the days when many more Jews gather for prayer than at any other time of the year. The Hebrew name given to these holidays is Yamim Nora’im, the Days of Awe.
- [Finding Holiness in Everyday Experience](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/finding-holiness-everyday-experience/) - In this award-winning High Holiday sermon, RRC student Elyssa Cherney explores where holiness resides.
- [Tzedakah and the Jewish Holidays: Giving for Social Change](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/tzedakah-and-jewish-holidays-giving-social-change/) - For centuries, giving to tzedakah has been a traditional way to mark Jewish holidays. But all holidays are not created equal. In this resource, we offer connections between the theme of each holiday or season, and some possible giving opportunities that correspond with it.
- [High Holiday Liturgy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/high-holiday-liturgy/) - Rabbi Alan LaPayover (RRC ‘02), recorded the prayers of the Reconstructionist liturgy for the High Holiday services. The sound files are available for listening and download from links on this page.
- [Rosh Hashanah - The Other Seder](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/rosh-hashanah-other-seder/) - The Rosh Hashanah seder is a pre-meal ritual, a counterpart to the Passover seder we all know about. With synagogue observance of Rosh Hashanah this year likely to be interrupted in many ways due to the pandemic, it is particularly apt to shift more of the observance to our homes. The Rosh Hashanah seder can mix tradition, modern relevance, and lots of fun.
- [Vision Statement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/vision-statement/) - Rabbi Deborah Waxman shares her vision for the Reconstructionist movement upon the occasion of her inauguration.
- [Israeli-Jewish Renaissance: Lights in the Darkness](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/israeli-jewish-renaissance-lights-darkness/) - Writing from Israel during a wave of terror attacks, Adina Newberg finds hope during Hanukkah in grassroots initiatives for coexistence.
- [Where Next?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/where-next/) - This 2004 report of the movement’s Israel Policies Task Force emerged from a movement-wide process that solicited thoughtful input from Reconstructionists across the country. While much has changed over the past decade-plus, most of this earlier report’s framework and recommendations are still compelling and sound.
- [Rejecting Chosenness in Favor of Distinctiveness](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/rejecting-chosenness-favor-distinctiveness/) - Waxman asks if it is “possible to believe that all people are created equal and to believe that Judaism is superior to other religions.”
- [Newsletter Archive](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/newsletter/) - Archives of email newsletters (Reconstructionism Today, Journeys, and Leadership Brief)
- [Divine Justice: A Jewish Perspective](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/divine-justice-jewish-perspective/) - Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D. spoke at the Chautaqua Insitution about divine justice, about good and evil and about God’s presence, plans, and love in the face of what seems to be unearned suffering.
- [Hesped for Howard Blitman](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/hesped-howard-blitman/) - Hesped (Eulogy) for Howard Blitman, delivered on January 4, 2021 by Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D.
- [Reconstructing Judaism Over the Next Five Years](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/reconstructing-judaism-over-next-five-years/) - by Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., and Seth Rosen In March 2021, the board of governors unanimously adopted a five-year strategic plan for Reconstructing Judaism. The new strategic plan reaffirms our longstanding commitments, transforms our ideological interest in innovation into strategy, and charts new paths forward around engagement of individuals and communities through both in-person and online platforms. The plan identifies five key goals, equal in importance:
- [Raising Future Decision Makers: Ten Keys to Ethical Choices in Everyday Life](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/raising-future-decision-makers-ten-keys-ethical-choices-everyday-life/) - Rabbi Steven Carr Reuben, Ph.D. is a nationally recognized expert in the field of moral education and has written extensively on that topic. In this recording of a community teaching call, he discusses raising ethical children of character and share ten keys to leading your children to ethical choices in everyday life:
- [Why Do We Pray? A D'var Torah on Tazria/Metzora](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/why-do-we-pray-dvar-torah-tazriametzora/) - What is the difference between religious thought and religious experience? Rabbi Nancy Fuchs-Kreimer explores this question in the context of parashat Tazria/Metzora.
- [Here, There and Everywhere — Three Views of Revelation for Shavuot](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/here-there-and-everywhere-three-views-revelation-shavuot/) - When we speak of the “revelation” of Torah, what do we mean? Elsie Stern shared three perspectives from traditional Jewish texts, viewed with a Reconstructionist eye.
- [What Makes a Reconstructionist Congregation Different?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/what-makes-reconstructionist-congregation-different/) - In this talk, Rabbi Jacob Staub describes what makes Reconstructionist communities unique. Recorded in November 2014 at Congregation Kehillat Israel in Pacific Palisades, California. A full transcript is included.
- [The Reconstructionist Revolution: Foundational Ideas](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/reconstructionist-revolution-foundational-ideas/) - In this hour-long conference call, Rabbi Jane Litman presents an overview of the revolutionary ideas that underlie the first century of Reconstructionist Judaism.
- [A Hasidic Lens on Parashat Bo](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/hasidic-lens-parashat-bo/) - In this short talk, Rabbi Lester Bronstein brings 18th and 19th-century Hasidic thought into dialogue with contemporary Reconstructionist theology.
- [Liturgy and Prayer Leadership: Distance Learning Session](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/liturgy-and-prayer-leadership-distance-learning-session/) - This distance learning conference call explores the dynamics of worship and the human impulse to pray, some of the deep structures of Jewish prayer services, and specifically Reconstructionist liturgy.
- [Jewish Tradition and Journalistic Ethics Audio](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/jewish-tradition-and-journalistic-ethics-audio/) - Rabbi David Teutsch, Ph.D., discusses the role of the free press in the Jewish community and American society, and what Jewish values can teach us about journalistic ethics.
- [Reconstructionist Radio: The Passover Seder](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/reconstructionist-radio-passover-seder/) - This audio program, recorded in 1998, offers an overview of the structure, development and religious meanings of the haggadah and the Passover seder.
- [Shavuot Audio Program](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/shavuot-audio-program/) - This archival episode of Heart, Mind, and Spirit discusses the holiday of Shavuot.
- [The Book of Ruth: A Torah of Lovingkindness in the Face of Death](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/book-ruth-torah-lovingkindness-face-death/) - Rabbi David Gedzelman explores the Book of Ruth with an eye toward structures of covenantal openness, societal protection and compassion towards the other.
- [Moses' Encounters with God](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/moses-encounters-god/) - Rabbi Maurice Harris examines the Torah’s treatment of Moses’ up-close encounters with God.
- [Art and Biblical Text](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/art-and-biblical-text/) - In this Community Teaching call from January 2017, Rabbi Sandy Eisenberg Sasso teaches on artists and biblical text as seen through literature, visual art and music.
- [Limiting Debate on Israel Will Only Hurt Us](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/limiting-debate-israel-will-only-hurt-us/) - During a time of communal controvery over Israel conversations, Rabbi Sid Schwarz issues a clarion call for open debate and free expression.
- [What's God Have to Do With It?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/whats-god-have-do-it/) - How do we address life's tough questions from the Reconstructionst framework of a non-supernatural God?
- [Changing the Equation: A Reflection On God](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/changing-equation-reflection-god/) - Rabbi Toba Spitzer offers a reconceptualization of our image of God through the vehicle of process theology.
- [Hagar: The Immigrant Worker](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/hagar-immigrant-worker/) - This provocative Rosh Hashanah sermon draws parallels between Hagar, Sarah’s mistreated servant, and today’s immigrant workers.
- [Hagar the Stranger](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/hagar-stranger/) - To love the stranger represents an outrageous leap out of the typical moral economy, in which we do kindnesses and expect to be repaid in kind. In loving the stranger, we transcend self-interest.
- [How to Make Yom Kippur Meaningful for Our Children](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/how-make-yom-kippur-meaningful-our-children/) - Yom Kippur is probably the most challenging holiday to explain meaningfully on a child's level. Rabbi Devorah Bartnoff, z”l, offers goals and techniques for teaching and experiencing Yom Kippur.
- [Building the Jewish Future](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/building-jewish-future/) - Rabbi Sid Schwarz describes a lifetime of building new Jewish organizations that meet the Jewish community’s ever-changing needs.
- [Session 1: The Need for Progressive Jewish Communities to Reconstruct Themselves in This Era](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/session-1-need-progressive-jewish-communities-reconstruct-themselves-era/) - Rabbi Sid Schwarz introducing Reconstructing Jewish Communities panel
- [Making Decisions on Controversial Issues](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/making-decisions-controversial-issues/) - How can congregations best handle controversial issues and explore the values underlying disagreements about issues?
- [Reconstructionism, Chosenness, and the Abrahamic Dialogue](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/reconstructionism-chosenness-and-abrahamic-dialogue/) - Fuchs-Kreimer describes how respect for interfaith colleagues led her to re-examine Jewish beliefs she once dismissed out of hand.
- [Seeing the Other](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/seeing-other/) - Rabbi Jacob Staub reflects on the difference between welcoming others and seeing through their eyes.
- [The Value of a Different Path](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/value-different-path/) - In valuing parenthood, Rabbi Jacob Staub argues, we must not devalue the experiences and wisdom of those who are not parents.
- [Coming Out](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/coming-out/) - Reflecting on his own coming out, Rabbi Jacob Staub examines the varieties of tolerance, inclusion, and being considered “normal.”
- [Building a Personal Relationship with a Nonpersonal God](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/building-personal-relationship-nonpersonal-god/) - Staub recounts his spiritual biography and offers ideas about how to build a personal relationship with God.
- [The Hebrew Word For Patience](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/hebrew-word-patience/) - Rabbi Jacob Staub reflects on the spirituality of anger, patience, and healing.
- [If God Is Good, Why Do Pain and Suffering Exist?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/if-god-good-why-do-pain-and-suffering-exist/) - The question is an old and venerable one: If God is good, and God is all-knowing, and God is all-powerful, then why is there so much pain and suffering in the world? Rabbi Jacob Staub explores this longstanding question.
- [How Can Reconstructionists Pray?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/how-can-reconstructionists-pray/) - How does a non-supernatural notion of God fit together with the practice of prayer? Rabbi Jacob Staub explores their intersection.
- [Rabbi Fredi's Challah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/rabbi-fredis-challah/) - Rabbi Fredi Cooper's challah recipe
- [Preparing for a Rabbinic Sabbatical From the Perspective of the Congregational Leadership](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/preparing-rabbinic-sabbatical-perspective-congregational-leadership/) - This document is meant to help Reconstructionist communities look ahead to a rabbinic sabbatical as a time of growth for their rabbi and for their community.
- [Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan as an American Thinker](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/rabbi-mordecai-kaplan-american-thinker/) - A comprehensive review of the place of Mordecai Kaplan's thought in the content of American philosophy and theology.
- [Shavuot: The Harvest Festival of Torah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/shavuot-harvest-festival-torah/) - Reconstructionist Jews believe that the Jewish people created the Torah and the Torah, in turn, has created and recreated the Jewish people throughout history. Shavuot, the festival of giving and receiving the Torah, should be central to our communal life.
- [Understanding Transgender Issues in Jewish Ethics](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/understanding-transgender-issues-jewish-ethics/) - Drawing on the surprisingly sophisticated classical Jewish perspective on sex and gender, Rabbi David Teutch advocates for celebration and inclusion of transgender people as a fundamental issue of justice.
- [Values-Based Decision Making](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/values-based-decision-making/) - Values-based decision making (VBDM) provides a way for individuals and groups to think through and express their policies, procedures and behavior, informed by Jewish values and contemporary insights. It has been used within the Reconstructionist movement for more than 20 years and is most recently embodied in A Guide to Jewish Practice.
- [Attitudes, Beliefs and Values Shaping Jewish Practice](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/attitudes-beliefs-and-values-shaping-jewish-practice/) - A list of traditional and contemporary values shaping the process of Values-Based Decision Making. This article is excerpted from the Guide to Jewish Practice.
- [Author Interview: Guide to Jewish Practice](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/author-interview-guide-jewish-practice/) - Interview with Rabbi David Teutsch, Ph.D., about the issues addressed in the new Guide to Jewish Practice
- [A Kiss is Just A Kiss?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/global-day-2015/) - In this talk from the 2015 Global Day of Jewish Learning, Professor Joel Hecker discusses the diverse meanings ascribed to kissing in Jewish mystical literature.
- [Reconstructionist Blessing before Torah Reading](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/reconstructionist-blessing-torah-reading/) - Reconstructionist prayerbooks use an altered version of the blessing before reading Torah. We affirm Torah as our unique and precious Jewish vehicle for connection with the divine, while avoiding implications of superiority over other peoples and religions.
- [A Yizkor Prayer for Righteous Gentiles](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/yizkor-prayer-righteous-gentiles/) - A child of Holocaust survivors, Rani Jaegar composed a yizkor prayer for Righteous Gentiles that is unique and breaks new ground. It tells the story of those who saw suffering and knew how to find their humanity. It remembers that “righteousness is an everlasting foundation” that breaks boundaries.
- [To Read More...](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/read-more/) - Further resources on embracing the stranger face-to-face
- [To Read More...](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/further-resources-within/) - Further resources on embracing the stranger within.
- [Session 5: Questions and Answers](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/session-5-questions-and-answers/) - Audience questions and answers at Reconstructing Jewish Communities panel
- [1994 Report of JRF Task Force on Inclusion for People with Disabilities](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/1994-report-jrf-task-force-inclusion-people-disabilities/) - This report, issued in 1994, was the work product of JRF’s Task Force on Inclusion for People with Disabilities.
- [JRF Israel Task Force Report (2004)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/jrf-israel-task-force-report-2004/) - JRF Israel Task force report from 2004
- [B'nai Mitzvah Handbook, Chapel Hill Kehillah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/bnai-mitzvah-handbook-chapel-hill-kehillah/) - One congregation's detailed guide on the Bar/Bat Mitzvah process in their community
- [How Should We Respond to Human Need?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/how-should-we-respond-human-need/) - A text study on our relationship to, and responsibility for, those in need. Developed by Rabbi Shai Gluskin and Rabbi Toba Spitzer
- [Lecha Dodi (Sheet Music)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/lecha-dodi-sheet-music/) - Sheet music for a new setting of the traditional Friday night Lecha Dodi prayer.
- [Mussar and Text Sources on Climate Change](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/mussar-and-text-sources-climate-change/) - This document contains two study guides which use Jewish texts and sources to offer wisdom on global climate change.
- [Fall Holiday Glossary](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/fall-holiday-glossary/) - This file contains a helpful glossary of terms for Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Shmini Atzeret and Simchat Torah. It begins with a letter to parents suggesting themes to think about during the holiday season.
- [Inclusion and Disabilities: Hebrew and English Texts](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/inclusion-and-disabilities-hebrew-and-english-texts/) - Rabbi Michelle Greenfield examines Biblical and rabbinic sources on disability. She examines the use and misuse of Hebrew texts that are often quoted when talking about inclusion of people with different abilities. Her English commentary provides a deeper understanding of these texts' strengths and limitations.
- [Greening Sustainable Synagogues](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/greening-sustainable-synagogues/) - In this resource guide, Rabbis Fred Dobb and Nathan Martin present a plethora of resources to help congregations become shomrei adamah - responsible guardians of the Earth.
- [Exodus in Our Time](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/exodus-our-time/) - A creative meditation on liberation from Egypt
- [Oneg Shabbat - Delighting in Shabbat, a Lesson for Use With Siddur Kol Ha'Noar](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/oneg-shabbat-delighting-shabbat-lesson-use-siddur-kol-hanoar/) - This lesson, for use with Siddur Kol Ha’Noar, helps acquaint children and adults with the idea and practice of Shabbat.
- [Teen TEL Curriculum: Derekh Eretz](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/teen-tel-curriculum-derekh-eretz/) - The TEL (Teens: Experience and Learning) post-b’nai mitzvah program focuses on the values of spiritual peoplehood that form the cornerstones of Reconstructionist Jewish education. Each curriculum focuses on a different value. Derekh Eretz is a Hebrew expression broadly meaning “treatment of others.”
- [Teen "TEL" Curriculum: Tikkun Olam](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/teen-tel-curriculum-tikkun-olam/) - The TEL (Teens: Experience and Learning) post-b’nai mitzvah program focuses on the values of spiritual peoplehood that form the cornerstones of Reconstructionist Jewish education. Each curriculum focuses on a different value. Tikkun Olam is a Hebrew expression broadly meaning “reparing the world.”
- [Teen "TEL" Curriculum: Hiddur Mitzvah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/teen-tel-curriculum-hiddur-mitzvah/) - The TEL (Teens: Experience and Learning) post-b’nai mitzvah program focuses on the values of spiritual peoplehood that form the cornerstones of Reconstructionist Jewish education. Each curriculum focuses on a different value. Hiddur Mitzvah is a Hebrew expression meaning “beautification of a mitzvah,” which we here interpret as creativity in its broadest sense.
- [Classroom Management and Lesson Planning](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/classroom-management-and-lesson-planning/) - This manual provides practical suggestions and tools for lesson planning and classroom management. It includes excellent resources for bringing a “multiple intelligences” awareness into classrooms.
- [Herzl Play, Monologue and Activities (Grades 4-7)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/herzl-play-monologue-and-activities-grades-4-7/) - A play and activities on the life and values of Zionist pioneer Theodor Herzl
- [Introduction to Midrash (5th Grade and Up)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/introduction-midrash-5th-grade-and/) - This lesson about the Garden of Eden encourages students to generate their own midrash. It models an approach that can be applied to other Torah texts.
- [Zionism and Communal Covenant: A Reconstructionist Approach](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/zionism-and-communal-covenant-reconstructionist-approach/) - In 2004, the JRF Israel Policies Task Force issued a report calling for a recommitment to Zionism. This excerpt from that report explores Kaplan's definition of “New Zionism.” It also discusses how a communal covenant could strengthen the relationships among the Reconstructionist community, Israel and the broader Jewish community.
- [Mishnah Impossible](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/mishnah-impossible/) - This is a hands-on, team activity for the week before Sukkot that allows students to build sukkot according to instructions given in the Mishnah.
- [Israel in Our Lives: Life-Long Learning About the Land of Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/israel-our-lives-life-long-learning-about-land-israel/) - This is a curriculum for Israel education, from early childhood through adulthood, fostering connections to Israel through language, liturgy, song, trips and relationships.
- [Reconstructionist Online Teaching Certificate](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/reconstructionist-online-teaching-certificate/) - Description of Reconstructionist teaching certificate program
- [Reconstructionist Learning Network Catalog, 2016-17](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/reconstructionist-learning-network-catalog-2016-17/) - This is the PDF version of the 2016-2017 catalog for the Reconstructionist Learning Networks.
- [Resources Following the Election](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/resources-following-election/) - Prayers and resources for discussion following the November 2016 Presidential election in the United States.
- [Text study on Mishpatim, Donkeys and Enemies](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/text-study-mishpatim-donkeys-and-enemies/) - This study sheet by Rabbi Toba Spitzer explores the Biblical commandment to help your enemy who is in distress.
- [Bemidbar Text Study: Why Was the Torah Given in the Wilderness?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/bemidbar-text-study-why-was-torah-given-wilderness/) - This study sheet on parshat Bemidbar, prepared by Rabbi Toba Spitzer, explores commentaries on why Torah was given in the wilderness.
- [The Man of Mystery - Parashat Vayeshev](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/man-mystery-parashat-vayeshev/) - A text study sheet prepared by Rabbi Toba Spitzer on the mysterious “man” found in Parshat Vayeshev.
- [Midrashim on The Death of Moses](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/midrashim-death-moses/) - For Haazinu/Shabbat Shuvah, an amalgam of midrashim on the death of Moshe, ending in a beautiful exchange of forgiveness between him and the Israelites. Prepared by Rabbi Toba Spitzer
- [Text Study on Nitzvavim: Turning in Teshuvah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/text-study-nitzvavim-turning-teshuvah/) - A text study on Parshat Nitzavim on teshuvah, featuring teachings from Itturei Torah and Rabbi Sandy Roth (of blessed memory).
- [Teshuvah: A Reconstructionist Perspective](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/teshuvah-reconstructionist-perspective/) - A study sheet on the evolving concept of teshuvah over the ages.
- [The Complexities of Reconciliation: Joseph & His Brothers](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/complexities-reconciliation-joseph-his-brothers/) - A study sheet on Parashat Vayigash on the reconciliations/re-encounters between Joseph and his brothers, and between Joseph and Jacob.
- [What is the Light of Hanukkah?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/what-light-hanukkah/) - Sources, ancient and modern, on the nature of the light of Hanukkah
- [Evolution of Hanukkah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/evolution-hanukkah/) - A text study on the evolution of Hanukkah. What is the miracle, and what is the light?
- [On Digging - Parashat Toldot](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/digging-parashat-toldot/) - Rabbi Toba Spitzer assembles textual sources on the redigging of ancestral wells in Parashat Toldot.
- [Revised "Maoz Tzur" From Early Reconstructionist Siddur](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/revised-maoz-tzur-early-reconstructionist-siddur/) - This revision of a familiar Hanukkah song was published in the 1945 Reconstructionist siddur. The original text was amended to address ethical concerns raised by Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan.
- [Of Kings, Messages, Journeys: Parables of Teshuvah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/kings-messages-journeys-parables-teshuvah/) - This study sheet contains two parables of the King and the returning son by the Baal Shem Tov, as well one of Kafka's parables, “The Imperial Messenger,” which has some intriguing echoes of and stark contrasts with the first two stories.
- [Teshuvah and Compassion](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/teshuvah-and-compassion/) - This study sheet on teshuvah and compassion draws our attention to the interplay between our ability to forgive others, and God's ability to forgive us.
- [Making Pesakh Personal](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/making-pesakh-personal/) - This study sheet provides a variety of sources on the spiritual practices surrounding Passover (Pesakh).
- [What is "Coveting"?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/what-coveting/) - The Ten Commandments tell us not to “covet.” What does that mean? This study sheet explores sources related to this issue.
- [Gates, Locked and Unlocked: A Yom Kippur Text Study](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/gates-locked-and-unlocked-yom-kippur-text-study/) - This text study examines the vivid image of gates closing at the end of Yom Kippur.
- [Ki Tavo and the Practice of Joy](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/ki-tavo-and-practice-joy/) - What does it mean to be commanded to be joyful? Rabbi Toba Spitzer unpacks this imperative from Parashat Ki Tavo.
- [What is the purpose of the tzitzit (fringes)?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/what-purpose-tzitzit-fringes/) - What is the meaning of the fringes (tzitzit) on a Jewish prayer shawl (tallit)? Rabbi Toba Spitzer examines the sources.
- [On Torah & Wilderness](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/torah-wilderness/) - Study sheet on the significance of having received the Torah at Mt. Sinai, in the wilderness.
- [Emor and Omer: A Study Sheet](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/emor-and-omer-study-sheet/) - The ritual of counting the Omer takes place between the holidays of Pesach and Shavuot. This study sheet explores the deeper meaning of this commandment.
- [The Creation of Humanity: A Text Study](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/creation-humanity-text-study/) - A text study from the midrashic literature on the creation of humanity
- [Nitzavim and Teshuvah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/nitzavim-and-teshuvah/) - Study sheet on the relationship between Parashat Nitzavim and themes of teshuvah.
- [What is Sin? A Text Study](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/what-sin-text-study/) - Study sheet on the different interpretations of “sin” throughout Jewish history.
- [Walking the Freedom Walk](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/walking-freedom-walk/) - A civil-rights era song proclaimed, “No easy walk to freedom.” In this text study based on Parashat Behukotay, we examine what it means to “walk upright.”
- [Remembering Amalek](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/remembering-amalek/) - The Torah commands us to “wipe out the memory of Amalek…do not forget!” (Deut. 25) What exactly does “Amalek” represent, and what might it mean to remember (or blot out) that memory?
- [Remembering and "Blotting Out" Amalek](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/remembering-and-blotting-out-amalek/) - The Torah commands us to “wipe out the memory of Amalek…do not forget!” (Deut. 25) But is Amalek an external enemy—or something inside us?
- [The Ner Tamid – What is this light?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/ner-tamid-what-light/) - Rabbi Toba Spitzer explores texts related to the Eternal Light and its symbolism.
- [Truth, Deception, and Interpersonal Relationships](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/truth-deception-and-interpersonal-relationships/) - Study sheet and leader’s notes on the Jewish sources, ethics and interpersonal consequences of lying and truth-telling.
- [Bar/Bat Mitzvah Family Education Series](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/barbat-mitzvah-family-education-series/) - This three-part family education series addresses issues related to bar/bat mitzvah. It is designed for a large group of parents and students and uses active learning exercises. It covers issues around Jewish identity, the meaning of bar/bat mitzvah, and common concerns that parents and students have about the process.
- [Broken Tablets](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/broken-tablets/) - A study sheet on the two sets of tablets in the Sinai/Golden Calf story.
- [Why We Need Process Theology](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/why-we-need-process-theology/) - What is “process theology”? Rabbi Toba Spitzer argues that it offers ways to think and talk about God that make sense in a modern scientific framework, that resonate with Jewish texts and traditions, and that promote wise and ethical behavior.
- [Environmental Activism and Jewish Spirituality](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/environmental-activism-and-jewish-spirituality/) - This symposium among eight Reconstructionist leaders explores the interface between environmental activism and Jewish spirituality. Originally published in Winter 2001/2002 issue of Reconstructionism Today, this discussion remains relevant and valuable.
- [Text Study on the Creation Story: The Nature of the First Human](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/text-study-creation-story-nature-first-human/) - In the first two chapters of the Torah, we find two different accounts of the creation of humanity. In this text study, Rabbi Maurice Harris explores the tension between these two stories, and presents a teaching from Midrash Bereishit Rabbah that presents food for thought about gender, essentialism, and the nature of humanity.
- [The Midwives of Exodus: An Interfaith Text Study](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/midwives-exodus-interfaith-text-study/) - An easily-accessible text study about the ethnic ambiguity that the Torah presents us with regarding the midwives who refused to obey Pharaoh's orders.
- [Twelve Years A Slave: A Passover Resource](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/twelve-years-slave-passover-resource/) - This printable resource pairs selected quotes from Solomon Northup’s autobiographical memoir, “12 Years a Slave,” with quotes from the Exodus and other Jewish texts.
- [When You Say God, What Do You Mean?](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/when-you-say-god-what-do-you-mean/) - When we say “God” what do we mean? Ideas of God have changed dramatically over Jewish history. These Powerpoint slides explore some of that evolution. These slides accompanied Rabbi Maurice Harris’s talk from the Global Day of Jewish Learning, 2010.
- ["Being Abba": A Civilization Text Study on Fatherhood](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/being-abba-civilization-text-study-fatherhood/) - In this text study, Rabbi James Greene examines the evolution of Jewish ideas of fatherhood over time, with an eye toward contemporary responsibilities of Jewish fathering.
- [New Faces of Peoplehood: Two Educational Reflections from the conference “Wrestling with Jewish Peoplehood”](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/new-faces-peoplehood-two-educational-reflections-conference-wrestling-jewish-peoplehood/) - This resource on Jewish peoplehood provides tools for Jewish educators, including early childhood educators, to reflect and teach on issues of Jewish identity and peoplehood.
- [Kaplanian Report Card: An Evaluation Tool for Jewish Education](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/kaplanian-report-card-evaluation-tool-jewish-education/) - This evaluation tool provides a rubric for assessing the contemporary state of Jewish education
- [A Child's Biography of Mordecai Kaplan](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/childs-biography-mordecai-kaplan/) - This short biography of Mordecai Kaplan is written for children from 5th to 9th grade.
- [Exploration of God Beliefs: A Teen Program](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/exploration-god-beliefs-teen-program/) - This pilot program for Jewish teen education provides several activities for exploring and sharing beliefs about God.
- [The Life of Reconstructionist Educators in the Digital Age](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/life-reconstructionist-educators-digital-age/) - This short article reflects on the challenges and opportunities presented by digital technology in Reconstructionist education.
- [Yigdal: A Reconstructionist Examination](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/yigdal-reconstructionist-examination/) - Yigdal, one of the most beloved of the medieval piyyutim (liturgical poems) summarizes the thirteen principles of the Jewish faith as formulated by Moses Maimonides (RaMBaM; late 12th century C.E.). Reconstructionists often proudly assert that when we pray with a Reconstructionist siddur, we feel that we can 'say what we mean and mean what we say,' because our liturgical language reflects Reconstructionist theology. How might a Reconstructionist interpret the words of Yigdal in this way?
- [Theology Through Jewish Civilization](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/theology-through-jewish-civilization/) - In this text study, Rabbi James Greene examines diverse ideas of God throughout the evolution of Jewish civilization.
- [Lekh Lekha and the Promised Land: Text Study](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/lekh-lekha-and-promised-land-text-study/) - This text study, prepared by Rabbi Nina Mandel, contains pairs of passages examining biblical and contemporary notions of what “Promised Land” means, and how it has been interpreted by Jewish thinkers over the millennia.
- [At The Sea: A Selection of Midrashim](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/sea-selection-midrashim/) - This selection of midrashim on the crossing of the Red Sea provides a window into the tradition’s ethical concerns surrounding this well-known story.
- [A New Approach to the Rules Shaping Shabbat Practice](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/new-approach-rules-shaping-shabbat-practice/) - Congregation B’nai Israel in Willimantic, Connecticut underwent a long communal Reconstructionist process to decide on congregational rules for Shabbat practice. This is the result.
- [Haggadat Ha'Atzmaut: A Picnic Celebration of Yom Ha'Atzmaut](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/haggadat-haatzmaut-picnic-celebration-yom-haatzmaut/) - This is the main document for the Yom Ha’Atzmaut seder.
- [Haggadat Ha'Atzmaut: Discussion Questions](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/haggadat-haatzmaut-discussion-questions/) - Discussion questions for use in a Yom Ha’Atzmaut seder for Israel Independence Day.
- [Yom Ha'Atzmaut Seder Packing List](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/yom-haatzmaut-seder-packing-list/) - Packing list for use in a Yom Ha’Atzmaut seder for Israel Independence Day.
- [Yom Ha'Atzmaut Declaration of Independence texts](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/yom-haatzmaut-declaration-independence-texts/) - Texts from the Israeli Declaration of Independence, to be used for a Yom Ha’Atzmaut Seder
- [Welcome Poster - Letter-sized](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/welcome-poster-letter-sized/) - Small version of welcoming poster for synagogues
- [Welcome Poster - 11x17](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/welcome-poster-11x17/) - Large version of welcoming poster for synagogues
- [Movement Resolution on the Environment](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/movement-resolution-environment/) - This resolution on the environment was adopted by the Reconstructionist movement in the 1980s.
- [From Tzedakah to Restorative Finance: A Curriculum](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/tzedakah-restorative-finance-curriculum/) - This Reconstructionist curriculum on wealth inequality was written for the movement’s Tikkun Olam commission in the winter of 5777 (2016-2017).
- [Looking Backward and Looking Forward: Texts for a Jewish Resistance Movement](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/looking-backward-and-looking-forward-texts-jewish-resistance-movement/) - These materials explore Jewish models of resistance to oppression.
- [Love, Enemies and Evil: Beshalakh Text Study](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/love-enemies-and-evil-beshalakh-text-study/) - In this text study for Parashat Beshalakh, Rabbi Toba Spitzer examines the fate of the Egyptians at the Red Sea and our tradition’s ethical sensitivity to their plight.
- ["Where Was God?" - Lesson Plan On Natural Disasters and Parashat Noah](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/where-was-god-lesson-plan-natural-disasters-and-parashat-noah/) - During disasters and their aftermaths, many people wonder about God’s role in their suffering. This lesson seeks to explore God’s role in tragedy from a Jewish Reconstructionist perspective. This lesson is intended for children ages 8-12.
- [Jewish Values and People With Disabilities: Appreciating the Variety of Life](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/jewish-values-and-people-disabilities-appreciating-variety-life/) - This compilation of quotes from various text sources conveys Jewish values regarding people with special needs.
- [Kol HaNeshamah Hebrew text in Davkawriter format](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/kol-haneshamah-hebrew-text-davkawriter-format/) - Hebrew text of the services found in the Kol Haneshamah: Shabbat Veḥagim prayer book.
- [Hashkiveinu, Prayer and Connection: A Lesson for Use With Siddur Kol Hano'ar](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/hashkiveinu-prayer-and-connection-lesson-use-siddur-kol-hanoar/) - This lesson helps children and adults delve into the meaning and feeling of the Hashkiveinu prayer.
- [Making Our Synagogues Vessels of Tikkun Olam](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/making-our-synagogues-vessels-tikkun-olam/) - This article is adapted from a talk at the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation Tikkun Olam Kallah, March 2003.
- ["Faithful" report on innovation in faith communities](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/faithful-report-innovation-faith-communities/) - This groundbreaking report examines the transformation of the American religious landscape and the challenges facing existing religious institutions. As “the research and development arm of the Jewish community,” the Jewish Reconstructionist Communities are cited as a case study of organizational adaptation to face new challenges.
- [Guide to Jewish Practice - Educators' Manual](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/guide-jewish-practice-educators-manual/) - This manual will help you use all three volumes of A Guide to Jewish Practice to boost your adult and teen education programming in meaningful ways.
- [Printable Torah Blessings](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/printable-torah-blessings/) - Printable Torah blessing sheet
- [Substance Abuse, Mental Illness, and Homelessness Handout](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/substance-abuse-mental-illness-and-homelessness-handout/)
- [Source Sheet for Homelessness and Racism Session 1.26.20](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/source-sheet-homelessness-and-racism-session-12620/)
- [The Ten Plagues Relay Races](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/ten-plagues-relay-races/) - The Ten Plagues Relay Races - a Passover activity from Camp Havaya
- [Fun for Passover](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/fun-passover/) - This activity packet for kids and families was prepared by Havaya Summer Programs — newly updated for Passover 2021!
- [Reconstructionist Commission on Homosexuality Report (1992)](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/reconstructionist-commission-homosexuality-report-1992/) - In 1992, the Federation of Reconstructionist Congregations and Havurot released a report entitled Homosexuality And Judaism: The Reconstructionist Position, a document affirming the humanity and equality of gay and lesbian Jews and advocating for inclusion and welcome in all areas of Jewish life — a forthright stance that put Reconstructionism in the vanguard of religious organizations at that time.
- [Resources for Respectful Dialogue on Israel](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/resources-respectful-dialogue-israel/) - A collection of resources for congregational dialogue on Israel, drawn from within and outside the movement
- [A Guide to Talking about Israel in your Congregation](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/guide-talking-about-israel-your-congregation/) - Rabbi Toba Spitzer shares detailed guidelines and best practices on communal discussions around Israel.
- [A Zionism Worth Reconstructing](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/zionism-worth-reconstructing/) - Klein examines how experiencing the contradictions of Israeli life can help young North American Jews feel connected to Israel.
- [Rev Your Engines: First Session](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/revyourenginesfirstsession/) - In our followup to the 2016-17 Innovators Incubator, our new Rev Your Engines session focused on the development of a close-knit, supportive network of participants facing similar challenges in their start-up endeavors. From teen focused programming to a havurot for baby boomers, we looked into the support and development resources available to these community leaders.
- [Book Club: Third Session](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/bookclubthirdsession/) - In our third session with author Abigail Pogrebin, we talked about taking an “Elijah moment” at our Passover celebrations: enacting change in the world in an effective and fulfilling way.
- [Tribute to Howard Blitman](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/howard-blitman-tribute/) - Howard N. Blitman, a long-serving member of Reconstructing Judaism’s Board of Governors, was presented with the organization’s Presidential Recognition Award.
- [Role of Obligation in Jewish Education - A Discussion](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/role-obligation-jewish-education-discussion/) - Archive of a group conversation among Jewish educators about teaching Jewish obligation in a progressive religious setting
- [Key Tips For Talking With News Professionals: A Resource for Community Leaders](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/key-tips-talking-news-professionals/) - Positive media coverage can amplify your voice, inform the public about key issues and build further credibility for your community. At the same time, a negative story can negatively impact your community’s reputation. Here are key tips for speaking with journalists.
- [Resources on Synagogue Safety, Security, and Equity/Jewish Values](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/synagogue-safety-security-and-values-resources/) - Digital resources on synagogue security and related issues, as shared with Reconstructionist communities in late April of 2019.
- [Nurturing a Belief in God](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/nurturing-belief-god/) - This guide explores how to discuss God with children; it relates theological concepts to the natural world, human relationships and other parts of a child's world.
- [A Group Discussion About Money](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/group-discussion-about-money/) - A discussion among congregational leaders on the “Torah of Money” as applied to their communities.
- [A Reconstructionist Exploration of Dietary Law](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/reconstructionist-exploration-dietary-law/) - Rabbi Richard Hirsch reflects on his own evolving relationship with Jewish dietary law from a Reconstructionist perspective.
- [Synagogue Membership As a Requirement For Religious School Enrollment](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/synagogue-membership-requirement-religious-school-enrollment/) - Listserv thread discussing synagogue membership requirements for religious school enrollment
- [A Jewish Approach to Obligatory Giving](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/jewish-approach-obligatory-giving/) - Overview of issues of fundraising, dues, and obligation in Jewish congregations.
- [A Sampling of Books on Jewish Parenting](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/sampling-books-jewish-parenting/) - This annotated bibliography includes online and offline resources about many aspects of Jewish parenting, from a wide range of perspectives.
- [Dues and Financial Policy: Our Tax for Jewish Citizenship](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/dues-and-financial-policy-our-tax-jewish-citizenship/) - Historical overview of congregational finance and dues
- [Budgets: Living Our Values in a Financial Plan](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/budgets-living-our-values-financial-plan/) - A basic orientation to budgeting.
- [Ways to Welcome New Members: A Brief Overview](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/ways-welcome-new-members-brief-overview/) - A brief listing of ways to welcome new members to a congregation
- [Basic Fundraising Tips](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/basic-fundraising-tips/) - Basic fundraising tips
- [The Halakhic Basis for Community Financing of Jewish Life](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/halakhic-basis-community-financing-jewish-life/) - A survey of Jewish tradition's treatment of the support of community institutions.
- [Organizing Money: Capital Campaigns and Fundraising](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/organizing-money-capital-campaigns-and-fundraising/) - Overview of fundraising and capital campaigns
- [Resources on Community Building](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/resources-community-building/) - List of resources on community building for congregations.
- [Meet Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D.](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/meet-rabbi-deborah-waxman-phd/) - Profile of Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., at the time of her inauguration as President of RRC
- [His Blood Cries Out for Faith and Love](https://dev.reconstructingjudaism.org/article/his-blood-cries-out-faith-and-love/) - Reacting to time spent with civil rights leader John Lewis, Rabbi Mordechai Liebling refle