Central Conference of American Rabbis Mourns Al Vorspan, Z”L

Wednesday, February 20, 2019

The Central Conference of American Rabbis is grieving today, as we remember Al Vorspan, Z”L, who led our Reform Movement as Senior Vice President of the Union for Reform Judaism and Director of our Commission on Social Action. Al Vorspan died on January 16 at age 95 and is to be laid to rest today.

In the words of our colleague, Rabbi David Saperstein, “A true icon, Vorspan shaped much of the social justice work of the Reform Jewish Movement, ensuring it lives at the very heart of Reform Judaism.” On a more personal note, Al Vorspan was a beloved mentor, teacher, and friend to generations of Reform rabbis, stirring the fires of social justice activism in countless CCAR members and in the communities we serve.

CCAR rabbis join in extending sympathy to the Vorspan family and Al’s extended social justice family in North America and around the world. The memory of Al Vorspan is a blessing.

Rabbi David E. Stern
CCAR President

Rabbi Steven A. Fox
CCAR Chief Executive

Central Conference of American Rabbis