Sacred Choices: Adolescent
Relationships and Sexual Ethics is a comprehensive curriculum designed for
congregations and camps to use to teach sexual ethics to
teens.
Our teens live in a culture in which the societal
boundaries about what is sacred and what is to be saved for adulthood or
marriage have changed. They are continually confronted by pressures to conform
and participate in activities and behaviors for which they may not be physically
or emotionally ready. In few places where teens spend their time are there
opportunities to talk openly and honestly about such issues or to develop their
own sense of personal sexual ethics. The synagogue is a natural place for these
conversations to take place.
Podcast: Jewish Sex Ed - Listen to an interview with Rabbi Laura Novak Winer and Rabbi Jack Abramowitz in this podcast produced by the Religious Action Center.
Middle School Module: a set of curricular materials for use in congregations and camps, consisting of 5 lessons for adolescents in grades 6-8 and 3 lessons for parents. The curriculum comes with a Congregational Implementation Guide. Learn more...
High School Module : a set of curricular materials for use in congregations and camps, consisting of 7 lessons for adolescents in grades 9-12 and 1 lesson for parents and 1 lesson for families. The curriculum comes with a Congregational Implementation Guide. Available March 2008 . PREORDER NOW!Learn more...
Under development:
Guidelines for Addressing Sexual Activity in Youth Settings The Union is in the process of developing a statement on Guidelines for Addressing Adolescent Sexual Activity in Youth Settings (camps, youth group events, confirmation class trips, etc.) that may be adopted by congregations as well. The Guidelines will include corresponding training materials to support youth professionals in the implementation of these Guidelines. Available Spring 2008. Please bookmark this page and check back for updates on the development of the Guidelines.
"That our kids need our guidance and support is indisputable. Judaism has something to say to them. It tells them that they are created in the image of God, and each and every one of them is unique, of infinite worth, and entitled to respect. It tells them that the guiding principle of sexuality in the Jewish tradition is Kdoshim tihyuYou shall be holy, which means that sexuality is linked to blessing, commandment, and God."
Rabbi Eric H. Yoffie President, Union for Reform Judaism November 19, 2005/ 17 Cheshvan 5766