Liberal Judaism launches ‘inclusive’ ketubot for same-sex couples

New marriage documents approved by the movement's Rabbinic Conference won't use conventional 'bride and groom' terminology

Liberal Judaism have become the first Jewish movement in the world to introduce of ‘inclusive’ marriage documents for same-sex couples.

The progressive movement will offer new documents, known as ketubot, for couples who prefer not to use conventional ‘bride’ and ‘groom’ references.

Three sets of wording have been approved by Liberal Judaism’s Rabbinic Conference, covering male and female same-sex ceremonies, and gender neutral/non-binary weddings.

The ketubot were written by the movement’s’s Rabbi Mark Solomon, in consultation with other Progressive rabbis. Speaking to Jewish News, he said it was “important” because it “continues to develop Judaism in the most helpful, sensitive, compassionate and forward-thinking way for the needs of our time.”

He said LGBTQI+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) people are “an important part of our communities”, and the new documents “show that they are accepted and recognised fully for who and what they are”.

Mark added: “As a movement we long campaigned for equal marriage and, through projects such as Twilight People, we have now taken the lead on gender issues within the Jewish and faith communities.

Rabbi Aaron Goldstein, chair of Rabbinic Conference, said: “As Jews around the world come together for our High Holy Days, these ketubot demonstrate Liberal Judaism at the cutting edge of Judaism, and indeed of religion and society.

“Our goal is that innovation and inclusivity should not be radical, but the natural evolution of Judaism’s centuries old tradition.”

Liberal Judaism’s senior rabbi and chief executive, Rabbi Danny Rich, added: “This once again demonstrates that Liberal Judaism not only leads the campaign for inclusion but seeks to offer it equality of opportunity in all of its materials.”