Outreach 
INTERFAITH: FOR INDIVIDUALS

For more than 30 years, Reform Judaism has made a commitment to welcoming interfaith couples into our community. Interfaith issues impact entire family systems. Grandparents, parents and children all face challenges posed by differing religions and cultures. The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone. We are here to serve as a resource for you and your extended family.

Please take a look at our Bibliography that contains wonderful books on the subject of intermarriage.

Consider taking a class offered by the Union for Reform Judaism to learn more:

A Taste of Judaism: Are You Curious? is a chance to explore Jewish spirituality, ethics and community with Reform rabbis and educators who encourage questions and lively discussion. Enroll in one of our programs in your area. This class is designed for beginners—Jewish or not.

Introduction to Judaism is a seventeen-week course giving a broad overview of Judaism from a Reform perspective. It is designed for Jews seeking greater understanding of Jewish principles and practice, for interfaith couples, and for non-Jews considering conversion.

If you are a member of an interfaith couple or family, we invite you to find a spiritual connection in a Reform congregation.  Remember that Reform congregations warmly welcome interfaith families!

If you are raising children you should know about Union for Reform Judaism policies regarding religious school enrollment. Revisiting the 1995 Resolution on Religious School Enrollment  gives a clear explanation as to why it is imperative for religious schools to have a clear enrollment policy regarding children of interfaith families and equally important to communicate this effectively to your congregation.  You might find this article by Dr. Peter Robinson: Interfaith Familes: Choosing a Religion for Your Children helpful.

Find information about Reform Mohalim.

If you have questions, please contact an Outreach staff member. We are here to help you.

Interfaith Resources for Individuals  
Using a healthy dose of humor and insights gleaned from his own experience, Keen provides couples with practical advice and solutions for how to give children a clear Jewish identity while maintaining a comfort level for both parents. Includes perspectives from professionals who work with interfaith families.
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.
Essays on and by Non-Jewish partners  
By Doug Sumner, Temple Chai, Phoenix, Arizona
by Richard G. Galli
by Rabbi David B. Cohen, February 2005
Supporting and Honoring  
For discussion and understanding on the subjects of conversion, interfaith marriage, the role of the non-Jew in the Jewish family and what distinguishes the Jewish people.
Written by Rabbi Janet Marder
This innovative educational program by Rabbi Noa Kushner provides those who have not yet chosen Judaism with an oppurtunity to ask questions about Judaism without pressure.
By Rabbi Karen Bender
Download this Key to help you navigate the guide.
A panel discussion focused on ways to transmit non-Jewish family heritage to children.