This Jewish Life: We're All In This Together
Posted By James Besser
This Jewish Life: We're All In This Together
A few weeks ago, my roommate asked me if I would ever consider joining a synagogue that was not Reform.
My response was that I couldn't rule out the possibility, but I know I would have a hard time leaving the Reform Movement because of its long tradition of commitment to social justice and tikkun olam, both of which are central to my Judaism.
While I did not mean to imply that the other denominations within the larger Jewish community are devoid of social conscience, I clearly revealed my bias and (to an extent) ignorance about other Jewish groups.
Although, among the major denominations, the Reform Movement has the largest number of staff working full time on social justice advocacy, congregations across the country from all denominations are involved with this work.
Yesterday I was reminded of how central social action and justice are to Jews across the spectrum when I accompanied Rabbi Saperstein as he spoke to the attendees of Rabbinic Assembly's yearly conference. The Rabbis were preparing for a lobby day on Capitol Hill, learning from inside-the-beltway experts, and members of congress before visiting with Senators and Representatives to voice their opinions on important domestic and foreign policy issues.
In that room, there was no "Reform social justice agenda" to contrast with a "Conservative social justice agenda." There was simply an understanding of the need for change in the world and a desire to work together to make a difference. It was inspiring and grounding-and, most importantly, a great reminder that the Jewish denominations can work together to pursue social justice.