Reform Judaism welcomes Israel’s high court ruling on conversions

Reform Judaism in the UK is delighted that the Israeli High Court has officially ended the Orthodox monopoly on conversions. It is a major change in both religious and political thinking in Israel and brings the country into line with the long held values of Reform Judaism that are observed throughout the rest of the world.

“We welcome the decision of the Supreme Court to recognise Reform and Conservative conversions performed in Israel on the basis of the Law of Return” says Rabbi Celia Surget, Chair of the Assembly of Reform Rabbis and Cantors UK. 

”This follows longstanding hard work by the Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism and the leaders of the Israel Religious Actions Centre which we fully endorse. 

“Reform Judaism’s culture and spirit ensures that all who want to live a meaningful and fulfilling Jewish life can do so according to their own choice. It’s good that Israel is finally catching up,” she added. 

“This is welcome and long overdue,” commented Rabbi Dr. Jonathan Romain. 

“At last it gives converts full citizenship in Israel and heals an injustice that we believe should never have been allowed in the first place,” he said.