Rodef Shalom

http://rodefshalom.org

I chose Rodef Shalom, which is a reformed Jewish community. The church is based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and has been a beacon in the Reform Jewish community for more than 150 years. The website states, “From the middle of the 19^th century onward, our congregation has pushed for the modernisation of Jewish thought and practise.”

Rodef Shalom describe Reform Judaism; “As Jews, we remain Sons and Daughters of Abraham, but our encounters with other cultures have taught us much. Reflecting these realities, Reform Judaism asserts that a Judaism frozen in time is a static monolith, not a living foundation.” Thus, the religious community embraces modernity and adapts their religion, rather than taking the traditional route. This take on a modern approach is issued throughout the website as the religion is accepting of everyone, “We are proud that our congregational family includes men and women irrespective of age, marital or family status, faith tradition of origin, or financial means. We welcome the LGBT community, those with special needs, young professionals, and seniors. Interfaith families have a place with us as well.”

I think this American faith group sharpens the definition of American identity based on its particular faith because the religion celebrates diversity and takes a much more modern approach in terms of religion, which is  a definition of America and its identity as a diverse and modern country.