In 1989 the Union for Reform Judaism created the first program that offers uniform training to lay leaders, primarily those in small congregations, to help them support the spiritual life of their congregations. Over the years, the Reform Movement’s efforts to train lay leaders in the practices and rituals of religious life have expanded to meet the changing needs of all our congregations. 

The Had’rachah Seminar is designed to teach lay leaders a variety of skills to help them support communal worship, life-cycle events and educational opportunities. Participants in the Had’rachah Seminar may use these skills in various ways—by serving a congregation that has no clergy; by working in an assisted living facility or adult community; or by assisting their congregational clergy.