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Welcoming Interfaith Families

At Temple Emanuel we welcome interfaith families of all backgrounds. Non-Jewish spouses are welcome to participate fully in all aspects of congregational life with the exception of leading prayer and serving on the Temple Board of Directors.

Approximately 35% of our families are interfaith families. Children of interfaith families who are enrolled in our educational programs are considered Jews. We follow the practice of the national Reform Movement that when a child of an interfaith family becomes a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, he/she will henceforth be considered a Jewish adult by the congregation. Though there is no need for a formal conversion, the Rabbi is available to take children of interfaith families to the mikvah for formal conversion upon the wish of the parents.

We want non-Jewish spouses to feel at home at Temple Emanuel and to regard themselves as part of our congregational family.

Want to learn more about becoming a Jew?
ReformJudaism.org has resources for people who may wish to know more about choosing Judaism.
The URJ has resources for interfaith families here.

Any questions?
Ask the Rabbi!

Interfaith Family Resources

Becoming a Jew
A pamphlet that answers basic questions about conversion in an easily accessible question and answer format.

Glossary of Words and Terms for Jewish Living
Judaism is more than just a religion: it's a culture, a language, a way of life. And, integrated fully into these Jewish traditions are unique words and sayings. Though words may have different roots or origins (Hebrew, Yiddish, German), their meanings are universal throughout the Jewish community. This glossary introduces some of the more common sayings appropriate for lifestyle and holiday events.

Intermarried? Reform Judaism Welcomes You
Yours, mine, ours: Every couple begins with two individuals from different backgrounds. Interfaith couples and their families also face the special challenges posed by different religious traditions and sometimes cultures. This pamphlet answers some basic questions and suggests some additional resources.

Recommended Reading for Interfaith Families
Dealing with interfaith issues can be difficult at times. And, finding relevant information and resources to help you through the matter can also be a challenge. The following list of resources may help you to begin the journey for answers.

What's Missing from Our Congregation?... YOU!
Created to examine the value of belonging to a synagogue and to dispel myths about synagogue membership, focusing on the synagogue as a house of worship, a house of assembly, and a house of learning.

Tue, March 19 2024 9 Adar II 5784