FAQ

What does Masorti mean?

Masorti is Hebrew for ‘traditional’. We believe in traditional Judaism for modern Jews. Click here to learn more about our beliefs and practices.

I’m not observant – will I feel accepted?

Yes. Masorti synagogues include people with a very wide range of religious observance. You’ll be welcome no matter how you choose to live your Jewish life.

Are Masorti communities LGBTQ+ inclusive?

Yes. People of all gender identities and sexual orientations are welcome in Masorti communities. Most Masorti rabbis will officiate same-sex marriages.

What does a Masorti service look like?

It will be familiar to anyone who’s grown up in a traditional synagogue. It’s in Hebrew, uses the traditional liturgy – with one or two innovations – and familiar melodies. Some of our synagogues also offer alternative and explanatory services.

Do you cater for people with disabilities?

All our communities aim to be inclusive and offer support to people with disabilities or special needs. Please contact your local community to discuss your personal requirements and how they can help you access their services.

Can I convert to Judaism through Masorti?

Yes, we welcome people seeking to become Jewish. Local synagogues often operate conversion programs which are conducted with Rabbinical Assembly guidance.

There’s no Masorti community on my campus – what can I do?

If you and a group of friends would like to start a Masorti community, we would love to help and support you. Please contact us for more details. If there is no Masorti community in your area, you are welcome to attend our national conferences and educational events, which are open to members and non-members alike.

My partner isn’t Jewish – can I join a Masorti community?

While Masorti rabbis do not carry out interfaith weddings, we welcome couples and families with Jewish and non-Jewish members, and encourage them to take a full part in the life of the community (with certain activities restricted to those of the Jewish faith). Formal membership arrangements for non-Jewish partners vary so please ask your local community.

What is Masorti’s relationship with Israel?

We believe in the centrality of Israel in Jewish life and strive to build a meaningful relationship with the people and land of Israel. We also recognize the legitimacy of a wide range of views about contemporary Israeli society and politics. We are part of Mercaz, the worldwide Masorti Zionist organization and have a strong connection with the Israeli Masorti movement.

How is Masorti different from Orthodox and Reform Judaism?

Masorti Judaism celebrates the diversity of our contemporary Jewish community, while making its own, distinctive contribution. We identify with Orthodox Judaism’s adherence to tradition and Jewish law, in particular its commitment to Torah study. We also respect Reform Judaism’s integrity, commitment to modern values, and emphasis on personal spirituality. Masorti is unique in its steadfast commitment to integrating traditional Judaism with modern values, and in maintaining traditional observance while being fully inclusive and intellectually open-minded.

What role do women take in Masorti communities?

Most Masorti communities are egalitarian, offering equal opportunities for people of all gender identities to lead and take part in the service. Women are recognized as rabbis across the Masorti movement and all Masorti communities give all genders equal access to all lay-leadership positions. A few of our communities feature more traditional, male-run services, while offering women the opportunity to lead certain parts of the service.

Are you part of a global movement?

Yes, we are part of Masorti Olami (Global Masorti), which brings together up to two million Masorti and Conservative Jews in North and South America, Israel, Europe and across the world. We have active partnerships with North American and global Masorti organizations.