More Jews attend services during the High Holiday season than any other time during the year, but in many instances, only synagogue members can purchase High Holiday tickets. In response to this perceived need, 13 congregations in the New York/New Jersey region are setting aside seats for non-members who wish to attend High Holiday services at those synagogues.
Called Open Seats, the campaign is aimed at opening doors to Jewish participation and inclusion, a strong theme in Reconstructionist synagogues. “The Reconstructionist movement, which strives to make Jewish tradition, theology, and spirituality relevant in modern times, has been on the forefront of Jewish outreach since its inception,” said Hannah Greenstein, outreach coordinator for the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation of Metropolitan NY/NJ. “Its spirit and longtime practice of inclusion has made Reconstructionist Judaism an appealing home for interfaith and multiracial families and gay and lesbian Jews,” she added.
Get all the details at www.highholidayopenseats.com.
Comments
I'm pleased to see the New
I'm pleased to see the New York/New Jersey area congregations taking this approach.
Keddem Congregation, in Palo Alto, CA, has had open seating for the High Holy Days since our first High Holy Days services in 1996. I hope more and more of our congregations choose to welcome non-members in this way as time goes on!
Elaine Moise, Keddem Congregation
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