Resolution Adopted by the CCAR
ENDORSING THE REFORM BEIT MIDRASH IN JERUSALEM
Adopted by the 107th Annual Convention of the
Central Conference of American Rabbis
March, 1996
WHEREAS, the World Union for Progressive Judaism, in collaboration with the
Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, has long noted the absence
of a place of study for movement young people who, while not aiming toward a
Jewish profession, still wish the opportunity to study text for an extended
period in Israel and,
WHEREAS, it has consequently seen many young people study, instead, under
Orthodox auspices, or not study at all and,
WHEREAS, consequently, it has been decided that in the Fall of 1997 the Beit
Midrash will open its doors in Jerusalem, to offer potential yeshiva students
from the Movement around the world, and other interested individuals, the
opportunity to study text in an atmosphere of liberal religious expression and
free critical inquiry, thereby reinforcing and reinspiring the Jewish
indentities and commitments of those who are products of the Movement, and
bringing into the organized Jewish world, young Jews from outside who will be
attracted by its message,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED,
that the Central Conference of American Rabbis applaud the establishment of
the Beit Midrash, and urge its members to support it financially, through the
recruitment of students, and in promoting it institutionally.