The
Reform Movement welcomes and supports those who choose to explore Judaism. Jews
by Choice are a gift to our people and to our communities.
While
each person's path into Jewish life is unique, there are shared questions and
experiences that are common to many. We hope to help you find answers to some of
your basic queries and to point the way to additional sources.
Learning About Judaism
About 2000 years ago, a famous rabbi named Hillel was asked if he could teach the entire Torah, everything there is to know about Judaism, in the time he could balance on one leg. Hillel replied…”What is hateful to you, do not do to another. That is the Torah; the rest is commentary, go and learn it.” As Hillel explained, at the core of Judaism is a strong emphasis on personal ethics. This emphasis on ethics is especially true in Reform Judaism due to the movement's strong committment to social justice issues. Our movement took root in North America more than 130 years ago and is now the largest Jewish movement in North America, with more than 900 congregations and 1.5 million members. The quest to discover the entirety of the Jewish story will take you across centuries and continents.
For those who desire a brief glimpse into the wonders of Judaism--born Jews, Jews by choice, interfaith couples and their families, the wide diversity of seekers—this article gives a brief introduction to Judaism, its belief, its covenant and its traditions from a Reform perspective.
A straightforward introduction to Judaism, its customs, ceremonies, theology and practices. Chapters include the Sabbath, festivals, life-cycle events, aspects of faith, the Jewish home, and more.
The Jewish Home explains many of the "whys" of major Jewish holidays and lifecycle events. The birth of a child, wedding ceremony, b'nei mitzvah and Shabbat are only a few of the topics discussed.
How did I know I was ready to convert to Judaism? What are the essential elements that help insure the sincerity and authenticity of such an important decision?
As a parent, sibling, or close friend, you may be wondering how to react to a loved one’s decision to become a Jew. This resource addresses some of those questions.
Judaism Classes
A free, 3-session class for beginners -- Jewish or not -- that explores the
topics of Jewish spirituality, ethics and community values. Find a class in your area.
Introduction to Judaism A course for anyone interested in exploring Judaism—interfaith couples, those
considering conversion and Jews looking for adult-level basics—to the
fundamentals of Jewish thought and practice. Find a class in your area.
Find a Congregation
In North America
The Union for Reform Judaism represents over 900 congregations serving more than 1.5 million people across North America. Find a congregation in your area!
When Jews move, it is often a challenge to establish roots in a new community. Newcomers may not know where to turn and congregations wishing to welcome them may not even know they are there. Synagogue Match is a Web site designed to enable Reform congregations across North America to reach out and welcome those who are new to their communities.
Outside of North America
The World Union for Progressive Judaism is an affiliate of the Union and serves congregations and communities in nearly 40 countries, encompassing more than 1,200 Reform, Progressive, Liberal and Reconstructionist congregations and more than 1.5 million members across the world.
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