The Society for Classical Reform Judaism is a voice of advocacy for the preservation and nurturing of the historic values of the liberal Jewish tradition.
Our Programs include an international network of resources and support for individuals and congregations who share our principles, offering worship, educational and program resources.
- Participation in the work of the SCRJ is open to individuals and congregations. Temples whose membership includes a diversity of interpretations and understandings of Reform practice, are invited to share in our work — serving the spiritual needs and offering opportunities for worship and study for those who are committed to the Classical Reform position.
- The Society includes congregations, regional chapters and groups in communities throughout the United States. Currently, the SCRJ has affiliates in Boston, Washington DC, Atlanta, Savannah, Chicago and Dallas, with new groups being organized in other regions, including international locations. These local networks sponsor regular Classical Reform Services and other special programs.
- Rabbi Berman is available to visit congregations and communities for speaking engagements and to meet with those who are interested in creating new groups.
- A series of publications is planned, including a periodic newsletter and journal of opinion, The Reform Advocate, as well as pamphlets, study and discussion guides, liturgical materials and music resources.
- The SCRJ promotes the use of the historic liturgies of American Reform Judaism, including the
Union Prayer Book, in either its original text or the contemporary language
edition published by Chicago Sinai Congregation. Matching grants are offered to congregations purchasing the Sinai Edition for regular use in supplementary or alternative worship Services.
- The Society advocates for the role of the great musical heritage of the Reform synagogue in congregational worship today, offering sources for choral, organ, and cantorial works. We also support and encourage the composition of contemporary music, including liturgical settings and hymns for congregational singing in both Hebrew and English, with a variety of instrumental accompaniments.