Conservative Judaism/Consrvative Judaism

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Expert: - 6/12/2006


Question
What are the main features of conservative Judaism??

Answer
Dear Suzanne,

Thanks for writing.

Unfortunately, it is a very complicated question with many nuances.

In brief we are (1) an historical movement, based on the scientific study of the documents of our heritage; (2) an openness to change while preserving as much as possible of traditional rituals and values; (3) a valuing of the Bible, Talmud, Midrash and codes of Jewish law; (4) in modern Jewish most of Conservative Judaism has become egalitarian.

I would urge that you read the articles "Conservative Judaism" in Encyclopedia Judaica listed in the Index volume, to be found  in your local synagogue or public library.

If and when you have a specific question about an item that you encounter, please don't hesitate to write.

Rabbi Dov

Conservative Judaism

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Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner

Expertise

Write to me with questions about Jewish customs and law, history, philosophy and tradition for answers from a Conservative perspective or conversion. I am a graduate of The Jewish Theological Seminary and a member of the Conservative Rabbinical Assembly. Having served in congregational pulpits since 1970, I now am President of the Foundation For Family Education, Inc. a non-profit educational endeavor. I established it to create new formats of hands-on programs and provide free educational downloads at www.jewishfreeware.org. In addition to general informational questions I welcome your questions about programs for social action, outreach to dual-faith families, inter-faith clergy projects, healing services, education for conversion, adult education for the congregation and the community. If you have questions about Informal and Formal Education I am ready to share my extensive experience with Youth Activities, Camping and Religious School/Hebrew High School on a congregational, community and national/international level.

Experience

I have served on the National Youth Commission for more than 25 years and serve on the Boards of the Conservative Zionist movement MERCAZ and the World Council of Synagogues. I have always dual-families and taught candidates for conversion with a great sense of fulfillment. I am very proud of 25 years on the Jewish camping staff of Camps Ramah. My greatest source of pride is my family! Ask me about them, please!:-)

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