November/December 2017
VOL. XLIV No. 6
Liberal Judaism is a constituent of the World Union for Progressive Judaism
www.liberaljudaism.org
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Leading world Jewry once more
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IBERAL JUDAISM has become the first Jewish movement in the world to offer ketubot especially written for same sex couples and those who prefer a non binary or gender neutral format. The ketubah (marriage contract) has been a key part of a Jewish wedding ceremony for centuries - outlining how the couple will support each other and the home they are establishing. However, traditionally, it has used gendered language, including ‘bride’ and ‘groom’, which is not suitable for some couples. Liberal Judaism’s Rabbinic Conference has therefore now approved three new sets of wording – which it will offer alongside the traditional Liberal ketubah – covering same-sex male and same-sex female marriages and those who wish for a gender neutral/non binary ketubah. The gender neutral version will also appeal to all couples who are seeking a truly egalitarian ceremony. Liberal Judaism’s Rabbi Mark Solomon wrote the three new ketubot in consultation with other Progressive Jewish rabbis in England and Europe. They are a continuation of Liberal Judaism’s ground-breaking Covenant of Love: Service of Commitment for SameSex Couples, which Mark edited in 2005 to coincide with the introduction of civil partnerships in Britain, but long before equal marriage became law.
Rabbi Mark Solomon displays the wording for the three new inclusive Liberal Judaism ketubot
Mark said: “It is important that we now have these ketubot, as Liberal Judaism continues to develop Judaism in the most helpful, compassionate and forwardthinking way for the needs of our time. “As a movement we long campaigned for equal marriage and, through projects such as Twilight People, have taken the lead on gender issues within the Jewish and faith communities. “Having these ketubot is a signal that we are doing something very practical and real to help couples who want to bring together Jewish tradition and modern values on gender and sexuality.” JOIN three renowned musicians and support our movement’s future at Liberal Judaism’s inaugural fundraising concert on Thursday November 23. Thomas Carroll (cello, pictured), Abigail Dolan (flute) and David Dolan (piano) present Beyond Text: Interpretation as Meaning – an evening of classical improvisation that will include works by Bach and Debussy.
The ketubot were formally accepted by Liberal Judaism’s Rabbinic Conference at its most recent meeting and now form part of the movement’s official policy. Rabbi Aaron Goldstein, chair of Rabbinic Conference, said: “Our goal is that innovation and inclusivity should not be radical, but the natural evolution of Judaism’s centuries old tradition.” Liberal Judaism’s senior rabbi, Rabbi Danny Rich, added: “This once again demonstrates that Liberal Judaism leads the worldwide campaign for inclusion, while also seeking to offer equality of opportunity in all of our materials.” This fantastic night of music will also feature a champagne and canapé reception, silent auction and launch of the ‘My Jewish Story’ exhibition. The event takes place at The Liberal Jewish Synagogue, St John’s Wood, NW8 7HA. The reception starts at 18:15, followed by the concert at 19:45. To buy tickets for the event, please visit www.tinyurl.com/LJConcert