Union of Reform Judaism
Reform movement leader on Israel: ‘It’s time to lean in; not walk away.’
By Yonat Shimron — March 6, 2023
(RNS) — Like all US Jewish denominations, the Reform movement has given wholehearted support to Israel. In an interview with RNS, Rabbi Rick Jacobs reiterated that support, even as he allowed for some criticism.
Harvard, National Council of Churches, Reform Jews seeking reparations blueprint
By Adelle M. Banks — February 20, 2023
(RNS) — ‘This is not a mere research paper,’ said the Rev. Cornell William Brooks, a Kennedy School professor and former president of the NAACP.
Women have been rabbis for 50 years. It’s time the rabbinate became safe for us.
By Mary Zamore — June 7, 2022
(RNS) — We have recommended that employees of all genders receive robust paid family and medical leave, that congregations uphold strong gender equity policies and adopt comprehensive ethics policies to ensure that every person is treasured and respected.
Colleyville Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker to take new pulpit in North Carolina
By Yonat Shimron — February 25, 2022
(RNS) — The Winston-Salem congregation with about 280 member families is more than double the size of the Colleyville congregation.
This Simchat Torah, one ancient Czech scroll has returned to its country of origin
By Yonat Shimron — September 27, 2021
(RNS) — Jewish life was nearly extinguished by the Nazis. But because of a historical quirk, Czech Jewish liturgical objects, such as Torah scrolls, survived. Now, one such scroll has made it back.
Why the first in-person gathering for many US Jews may not be so celebratory
By Yonat Shimron — May 14, 2021
(RNS) — Debates over the crisis in Israel may not be the most desirable way to start in-person gatherings. But it will be a hard topic to avoid.
American Jews are taking a hard look at racism in their midst
By Yonat Shimron — February 12, 2021
(RNS) — The challenge for white American Jews is to understand that they can be both targets of white supremacy and also accomplices.
Reform Jewish umbrella group cuts staff by 20% due to COVID-19
By Kathryn Post — May 14, 2020
(RNS) — The staff reductions by the Union for Reform Judaism, and the movement's overall financial situation, some experts say, are indicative of a broader pattern in American Judaism.
Another heartbreak for American Jews? The cancellation of summer camps.
By Yonat Shimron — May 8, 2020
(RNS) — More than any other institution, camps provide the glue for future Jewish commitments.
Reform Jews call for reparations for slavery
By Yonat Shimron — December 13, 2019
(RNS) — The resolution is the first such effort on the part of an American Jewish organization but has precedent among some Protestant groups.
In the wake of Pittsburgh, houses of worship ask how much security is enough
By Menachem Wecker — November 1, 2018
(RNS) — 'I’m tired of being afraid to go to synagogue,' one worshipper posted on Twitter this week.
Survey: Summer camp may be key to fostering Reform Jewish values
By Yonat Shimron — October 2, 2018
(RNS) — The success of Jewish overnight camps is well-documented. A new survey attempts to measure whether camps also help shape adult Jewish values and social justice commitments.
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