Contemporary Debates in American Reform Judaism: Conflicting Visions

“…a groundbreaking collection of essays.” — IndianaJewish Post and Opinion
“Contemporary Debates in American Reform Judaism invites readers to eavesdrop on some of the stormiest and most contentious debates taking place within the Reform Movement in Judaism. Anyone interested in American Judaism and anyone interested in liberal religious movements will want to pay attention to these debates. They illuminate the central religious issues of our time.” — Jonathan D. Sarna, Brandeis University
“The largest branch of Judaism in North America, Reform Judaism, is clearly at a theological and sociological crossroads. Questions about intermarriage, autonomy, Israel, tradition, prayer, homosexuality, and outreach to non-Jews have stirred the religious world. Contemporary Debates addresses these critical issues head-on with brilliant clarity and with a thoughtfulness that is nothing less than stunning. Every essay will stimulate your mind and will provoke plenty of healthy debate. A must read for anyone who cares about the future of liberal religious life!” — Rabbi Charles A. Kroloff, President, Central Conference of American Rabbis and author, When Elijah Knocks: A Religious Response toHomelessness
“Dana Evan Kaplan has done his work as an editor with great perception and unflinching honesty. This book is the best portrait of contemporary Reform Judaism. Through his eyes we see its religious seriousness and its continuing struggles with its own soul.” — Arthur Hertzberg, New York University
“Contemporary Debates in American Reform Judaism is an admirable compendium of studies, reflections and critiques by thoughtful researchers, rabbis and other scholars as well as by some leaders of the Reform Movement who helped create the phenomena they discuss. It is as up to date as the 1999 Pittsburgh Principles, which are subjected to a diverse range of comment. The book accurately mirrors the clash of passionately held views-from inside as well as outside the Movement-that contribute to the dynamic nature of Reform Judaism in the new century.” — Richard Levy, Hebrew Union College, Los Angeles
“The largest branch of Judaism in North America, Reform Judaism, is clearly at a theological and sociological crossroads. Questions about intermarriage, autonomy, Israel, tradition, prayer, homosexuality, and outreach to non-Jews have stirred the religious world. Contemporary Debates addresses these critical issues head-on with brilliant clarity and with a thoughtfulness that is nothing less than stunning. Every essay will stimulate your mind and will provoke plenty of healthy debate. A must read for anyone who cares about the future of liberal religious life!” — Rabbi Charles A. Kroloff, President, Central Conference of American Rabbis and author, When Elijah Knocks: A Religious Response toHomelessness