Soc.Culture.Jewish Newsgroups Frequently Asked Questions and Answers URL: www.scjfaq.org/faq/18-03-09.html

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Question 18.3.9:
Reform's Position On...Intermarriage

In 1909 the CCAR held that intermarriage (interfaith marriage) is ``contrary to the traditions of the Jewish religion.'' The same position was restated in 1947, and amplified in 1973, when a substantial majority at the CCAR Convention in Atlanta ... declared its opposition to participation by its members ``in any ceremony which solemnizes a mixed marriage.''

Outgoing UAHC president Alexander Schindler supports the stance because of the threat he believes intermarriage poses to the future of Judaism."

Most rabbis justify their refusal to officiate at interfaith weddings by arguing that the Jewish conception of marriage is that of a covenant between two Jews. However, in the United States, there are a number of Reform rabbis (one estimate is about one-third) that do perform such ceremonies, under the belief that it is better to not create an atmosphere of rejection, which can only serve to turn away and alienate the Jewish partner. If the Judaism of the Jewish partner is strong, the non-Jewish partner is often turned towards Judaism and the children are raised Jewish.

Note even if a Reform Rabbi does not perform an intermarriage, they will usually accept the marriage as valid, and regard the children of those marriages as Jewish as long as they are raised as Jews.

It should be noted that few, if any, Reform/Progressive rabbis will perform an intermarriage in either Canada or the United Kingdom.

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