Seven rabbis quit Reconstructionist in U.S. over allowing non-Jewish partners
Seven rabbis have quit the Reconstructionist movement in the United States and more are considering leaving after the organisation announced that it would let its rabbis marry non-Jewish partners.
The progressive denomination, loosely affiliated to the Conservative movement, counts more than 100 congregations, but the September policy change has prompted a wave of exits, with some saying the new ruling is “detrimental to America’s Jews”.
Rabbi Reba Carmel, who serves a non-denominational synagogue in Pennsylvania, said she was concerned that “ultimately we will be assimilated out of existence”. She added: “It goes to the heart of what it means to be a Jewish leader.”
The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association was unapologetic, saying that while seven rabbis had left, four rabbis ordained by other non-Reconstructionist seminaries have taken steps to join the movement since the policy was announced.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
