Question about Reform Judaism?

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jon

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Hello, I have a question for someone who is knowledgeable with the Jewish law and tradition.

My father is of Russian Jewish descent. His mother was Jewish but he hasn't been brought up in a religious home. My mother is a Christian. Also, I have grown up to be non-religious.

I would like to join a reform temple in my community. Although I'm not sure if I would be considered Jewish.

After performing some research, I have found the answer, although it appears to be vague. Here is a quote from the website http://judaism.about.com

In 1983 the Central Conference of American Rabbis (the organization of Reform rabbis) adopted a resolution on the status of children of mixed marriage. The resolution stated that the Reform Movement would accept as Jews children with only one Jewish parent (regardless of that parent's sex) provided that the parents confirm the child's exclusively Jewish identity with "appropriate and timely acts of identification with the Jewish faith and people."

What does this mean?

"appropriate and timely acts of identification with the Jewish faith and people."

Do I have to prove that my father is Jewish? If so, what do I need to provide as identification? What is considered to be "timely"?

I understand that it may be difficult for me to provide detailed records outlining the family tree from my fathers side. Russia is big, I wouldn't even know where to start looking...

Or, would it be better to just undergo the conversion process?

Thank you for all your responses.
 
Likely you'll need a conversion. What that quote means is that if you are raised exclusively Jewish in a household committed to being a Jewish one - then they'll accept the person as Jewish regardless of which of the parents is the Jewish one. Where Reform is differing from Orthodox & Conservative, is that both of those would require conversion if the Dad was the Jewish one.

I'm Reform. Personally I'd rather see sticking with the maternal concept just for unity in the religion, & some Reform Rabbis will agree & do it that way. However, there is flexiblity.

However, since you weren't raised committedly Jewish, it doesn't apply to you. You'd need to convert -- but it's a fun process if you are drawn to the religion & your heritiage. Talk to a few Rabbis to get started & then start studying. Like everything Jewish - that's the central piece.

Hope that helps. If you have more questions, there are a few Jewish folks who frequent YAs.
 
* my friend converted this last October. I'll pass this along to my Jewish contacts. It's the sabbath right now.

They can correct me if I'm wrong: You would have to be raised Jewish by a Jewish father for some Reform rabbis to consider u Jewish. Most are requiring children/adults like u to convert. U haven't been raised as a Jew so u wouldn't be considered Jewish.

They'd welcome u as a convert - there's a lot to learn but my friend loved it.
 
It mainly means that your father would testify that he raised you with a Jewish background -- you celebrated the Jewish holidays -- and you didn't celebrate Christian holidays (at least not in your own home).

From your description, I'd say you wouldn't qualify.

Although I don't think they give a test, if I were to make up a minimal quiz, this is what I'd ask:

1) Describe Rosh Hashana.
2) Describe Yom Kipper.
3) Describe Succoth.
4) Describe Chanukkah.
5) Give the blessing for the Shabbat candles.
6) Give the blessing over bread.
7) Give the blessing over wine.
8) Give the blessing over the Chanukkah candles.
9) Describe Purim.
10) Describe Pesach.
10) Tell me about the Four Questions.
11) Name one other Jewish holiday and describe it.

So, you can start by researching these yourself.
 
It mainly means that your father would testify that he raised you with a Jewish background -- you celebrated the Jewish holidays -- and you didn't celebrate Christian holidays (at least not in your own home).

From your description, I'd say you wouldn't qualify.

Although I don't think they give a test, if I were to make up a minimal quiz, this is what I'd ask:

1) Describe Rosh Hashana.
2) Describe Yom Kipper.
3) Describe Succoth.
4) Describe Chanukkah.
5) Give the blessing for the Shabbat candles.
6) Give the blessing over bread.
7) Give the blessing over wine.
8) Give the blessing over the Chanukkah candles.
9) Describe Purim.
10) Describe Pesach.
10) Tell me about the Four Questions.
11) Name one other Jewish holiday and describe it.

So, you can start by researching these yourself.
 
The phrase "appropriate and timely acts of identification with the Jewish faith and people" typically refers to circumcision. It might also allude to some other steps taken by the parents early in the child's life to create a Jewish identity.

You should speak with a reform Rabbi. He (or in some cases she) will be able to help you.
 
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