-
The beginning
Conservative Judaism started in the 19th century and was created to preserve Jewish tradition. It was made as a middle ground between Orthodox Judaism and reformed Judaism. -
JTS
Jewish Theological Seminary was established in 1886 for training conservative rabbis and scholars. In addition to its educational mission, JTS also plays a key role in shaping Conservative Jewish theology, philosophy, and religious practice. Many of the key thinkers and leaders of Conservative Judaism have been associated with JTS over the years/ -
USCJ
The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism was founded in 1913 and has grown to become one of the largest Jewish organizations in North America, representing more than 600 Conservative congregations and over 1.5 million members. as a response to the changing landscape of American Jewish life. At that time, many American Jews were leaving traditional Jewish practices behind in favor of assimilation into mainstream American culture. -
Post World War II
Prior to the war, Conservative Judaism in the United States was primarily focused on maintaining traditional Jewish practices while also adapting to modern society. It was after the Holocaust that Jews started to question their approach. The post-World War II era was a time of significant change and growth for Conservative Judaism. It embraced new ideas and approaches that helped to shape its evolution in the decades that followed. -
Female rabbis
Female rabbis were an idea in 1972 but didn't officially become a thing until 1985 when Rabbi Amy Eilberg became the first woman to be ordained by the Jewish Theological Seminary, the main academic institution of Conservative Judaism. Now female rabbis are a big part of the Jewish community and they have become leaders. -
LGBTQ+
Conservative Judaism started embracing LGBTQ+ people/couples, In 2006, the movement passed a resolution supporting the rights of same-sex couples to marry, and many Conservative synagogues today welcome LGBTQ individuals and families. -
21st century
The goal of Conservative Judaism now is to build inclusive communities in the 21st century to create diversity in Jewish life.