What does it mean to be a Reform Jew?

It was great to teach in the adult education class last night on what it means to be a Reform Jew. Really enjoyed how students answered the question BEFORE we got into our discussion!

What does it mean to be a Reform Jew?

• I can live Jewishly without certain restrictions – a more modern lifestyle.
• Have the ability to choose which mitzvot are most meaningful to me – and perform those.
• That I can form my own opinions about theological matters.
• Choose the personal way of practicing
• To be able to express my Judaism in my own way.
• Believe that the Torah was written by man based on his experiences with God
• To be progressive and accepting
• To be able to experience my Jewish beliefs in a liberal environment that allows freedom of thought
• To be proud of the culture but free to raise questions.
• Willing to question the rituals of tradition
• Willing to question if God wrote/created the Tanach and so how “binding” is it?
• Question everything
• I can experience accessible worship – easier to understand
• I am happy to come to minyan almost every Saturday both for the service, the music, the camaraderie, and the great baked goods.
• It means that I enjoy going to High Holiday service and understand what it means
• It means that I can feel comfortable in a synagogue
• It means I have found a place to be peaceful with my higher power
• That I am more concerned about doing justice to others than about rules which confine me.
• That the substance of my religion, i,e, social justice is more important than the form – i.e. sitting apart from men in temple.
• I have the right to participate equally in religious discussions
• I can sit with my husband in services.