Westport News
December 1989
Judaism and Humanism go hand-in-hand
By Jayne Stogel Hynes
The biggest myth about the Congregation for Humanistic
Judaism is that Judaism doesn't matter much. Quite the opposite. A close look at the more
than 50 memberships in the Fairfield County congregation reveals a very strong commitment
to Judaism. But just what is the Congregation for Humanistic Judaism and how does it
differ from other, more traditional, forms of Judaism?
In short, take away the rituals and a standardized text, and focus on humanism within the
context of a Jewish way of life. The focus is on secular concerns and as they relate to
Judaism. The rights of the individuals are paramount, and their beliefs, though they may
differ greatly, are truly respected.
"There is no standardized prayer book, no dogma, no writ from on high". Explains
John Franklin, a member and co-founder of the congregation. "Clearly, there's a
social action focus, and we approach Jewish life in a human way rather than a worshipful
one."
Like many who join the humanistic Judaism movement, Mr. Franklin was disillusioned with
his reform congregation, which he believed had become too conservative. "Ritually,
reform and conservative beliefs have moved closer together," he says. With his
humanistic congregation, he says, "It was the first time I found any religious
experience exciting. It's a very intimate group, because we share so many values and
because everyone is a participant."
For example, in addition to the congregation president, several people volunteer every
three months to plan the next quarter's events. This isn't a congregation where people pay
their dues and then show up only for High Holy Day services. Because there is no
standardized prayer book, the chosen congregants select readings and interpretations for
things like lighting the candles and saying prayers over the wine. No two services are
alike, except they are held every other Friday night at various pre-selected homes of the
congregants.
"What attracted us to the congregation was its intellectual composition," says
Gloria Moldow, a recent Congregation President. "What draws us together is a real
concern about society, and for most, they can't find that in traditional forms of
Judaism."
The congregation already participates in two retreats a year. They've been going to a camp
in the Catskills for the past 10 years. For Cary Shaw, those weekends are even more of a
chance for him and his family to realize a sense of community. "It's the emphasis on
education and learning and a freeing up of your mind," says Shaw. "If I have my
own values, why do I need to join a group? Because it's good to have a community with
which to share values as well as to share in the life-cycle events."
But at the heart of it all, according to Ms. Moldow, is the common quest for the meaning
of a Jewish humanist. Nothing is totally accepted on faith. Rather, it is the quest and
journey that are most worthwhile.
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