Reform Judaism updates a name

Christian Century, Nov 29, 2003

The Union of American Hebrew Congregations, the synagogue and temple arm of the Reform movement, has changed its name to the Union for Reform Judaism. An overwhelming majority approved the change November 7 at the biennial convention of the 1.5 million-member body, the largest wing of Judaism in America.

The UAHC was founded 130 years ago as a theologically liberal movement. With its social-justice orientation it has also been a frequent ally of mainline Christian denominations in public affairs.

Though the movement's rabbinical arm carries the name Reform, leaders said that the use of the antiquated-sounding "Hebrew" in the congregational arm's name--and its lack of the word "Reform"--were out of touch with the vibrancy of its work.

--RNS