Interfaith and LGBTQ+ (Keruv) Committee

The Interfaith and LGBTQ+ (Keruv) Committee aims to make Temple Emunah welcoming and inclusive for ALL people who wish to participate in our community within the framework of Conservative Judaism without regard to race, ethnicity, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or gender identity. There is a broad spectrum of individuals and families in our community and we approach that diversity with great respect and are committed to building a community that understands and values our diverse world.

Within the framework of Conservative Judaism, the committee endeavors to:

• Enhance our practices as a community that welcomes all interfaith families including all Jewish and non-Jewish partners and relatives
• Enhance our practices as a community that welcomes and advocates for all LGBTQ+ people and their families
• Broaden our awareness and support community members with intersecting identities
• Create awareness and educate the community by providing a forum regarding contemporary issues pertaining to the Keruv mission
• Work with Rabbi Lerner to identify issues and to establish inclusive practices for communal life and rituals while maintaining standards of halakhah (Jewish law).

Individuals with questions or concerns pertaining to the work of Keruv are encouraged to contact Rabbi David Lerner or one the Interfaith and LGBTQ+ (Keruv) Committee Chairs: Lori Schechner or Doreen Grossman.

Temple Emunah Resources

• Rabbi Lerner article, Death and Life of Conservative Judaism (Jewish Boston)
• Rabbi Lerner’s December 2017 article, Intermarriage in a New Age (The Times of Israel)
• Rabbi Lerner’s May 2015 article, New Conservative/Masorti ceremony for interfaith couples (The Times of Israel)
• “Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Experiences with Supportive Religious Groups”, Shabbat sermon by Rachel Grossman on Pride Shabbat, June 6, 2020

Extra Resources

• Jewish Discovery Institute
• Combined Jewish Philanthropies
• United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism
• 18 Doors
• Keshet – Working for the full equality of all LGBTQ  Jews in Jewish life
• Be’chol Lashon
• Jews of Color Initiative
• Jewish Multiracial Network