Jewish tradition commands us to respect our bodies and to strive for health as a means of honoring our relationship to God. Health issues have become a major concern for our families and increasing numbers of congregations have begun to develop responses and programs that speak to the Jewish view of health and wellness. Additional resources and “best practices” can be obtained by contacting the URJ’s Caring Community Specialist for Jewish Family Concerns, Rabbi Edythe Mencher at emencher@urj.org or 212.650.4296.
Encourage your congregation to practice the mitzvah of caring for and visiting the sick by developing visitation programs. Our suggested readings provide the necessary information for creating and maintaining such programs.
AIDS/HIV Resources
Bring AIDS/HIV awareness to your congregation with our resource book and video or borrow the URJ AIDS quilt.
Suicide
Resources for preventing suicide: statistics, risk factors, warning signs, coping strategies, and Jewish perspectives.
Jewish Genetic Diseases
Our
Jewish tradition encourages us to make every effort to prevent and diminish
human suffering. One way that individuals and congregations can work to
accomplish this goal is to gain and share information about a number of
genetic diseases which occur disproportionately within the Jewish
community.
Mental Health & Addiction
Eliminate the stigma surrounding individuals and families who battle mental health issues. Let our resources help your congregation raise awareness and offer support.
Cancer Support
Here you will find how to's, model programs, and important resources that will help your congregation support members whose lives have been impacted by cancer.
Eating Disorders
Resources for preventing and addressing eating disorders within your family and your congregation including Jewish text, basic information and personal reflections.
Bioethics
We offer Reform Jewish responses to bio-ethical concerns ranging from in-vitro fertilization to physician assisted suicide so that individuals can make informed Jewish decisions and congregations can more effectively counsel, guide, and support their congregants.
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