What is Reconstructionism?

Reconstructionism is an approach to Jewish living for the individual, the family, and the community. Based on the teachings of Rabbi Mordecai M. Kaplan (1881-1983) and his followers, Reconstructionism fosters the growth of a fully participatory Jewish community and articulates a vision of Jewish life which attracts those in search of a serious and maximalist approach to liberal Judaism.

Reconstructionists believe that it is the task of each generation of Jews both to preserve our traditions and to engage in ongoing reinterpretation of them so that they remain vibrant and meaningful for generations yet to come.

Reconstructionists are dedicated as a movement to universal adult study of Jewish sources, history, and cultural expression in its many forms. We are committed to eliminating Jewish illiteracy in a community whose members tend to be well-educated in secular terms.

Reconstructionists are open to the search for new meanings in our classical tradition. The nature of God, religious faith, the meaning of existence, the institutions of Jewish life and the forms of communal organization - all of these and more are open to honest and thorough re-examination. Although we are observant of traditional Jewish practices, we remain open to new interpretations and new forms of Jewish religious expression.

Reconstructionists recognize the human authorship of all religious traditions and acknowledge that no tradition has a monopoly on religious truth. Our affirmation of Judaism as our own tradition implies no sense of exclusiveness or superiority with regard to others. On the contrary, we welcome dialogue with persons of good will in all traditions, both within and outside of Judaism.

Members of West End Synagogue hold a broad range of beliefs about Judaism, God and the spiritual search. We believe strongly that our diversity is an asset and is entirely compatible with the cohesiveness of our community. Our common denominators are mutual respect and a commitment to thoughtful exploration. Dialogue has always been at the core of Jewish thought, and we consider open dialogue essential to sustaining a vibrant, healthy Judaism and Jewish life. Rigorous examination of our religious beliefs is highly valued, and no question is off limits.