Temple Shalom is affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ). Our community promotes spiritual nourishment, the enrichment of our Jewish identity and community, and the exploration of our rich Jewish heritage. URJ’s vision exemplifies our commitment to community:
A world in which Judaism enables all people to experience peace and wholeness (shalom), justice and equity (Tzedek), and belonging and joy (shayachut and simcha).
Introduction to Judaism from URJ
We encourage you to explore resources on URJ websites:
- URJ home page
- Basic facts about converting to Judaism
- Classes on Jewish spirituality, ethics, practice, and community online or in person
Other Online Resources
JewBelong
JewBelong: “For when you feel you don’t!” Straightforward explanations, readings and rituals to help warm your heart.
TheTorah.com
TheTorah.com — to make academic biblical scholarship accessible and engaging to readers from all backgrounds.
My Jewish Learning
- My Jewish Learning offers thousands of articles, videos and other resources to help you navigate all aspects of Judaism and Jewish life — from food to history to beliefs and practices.
- Articles on Conversion
Reform Responsa from the Central Conference of American Rabbis
The CCAR applies Jewish scholarship and transition to contemporary issues through the creation of Reform Responsa, based on the historic Jewish system of providing answers to questions about Judaism and Jewish living. Question-and-answer format, intermediate level.
The YouTube Rabbi
The YouTube Rabbi channel is intended to supplement Jewish learning online. It strives to provide accessible, easy-to-understand videos.
BimBam
BimBam: Watch Something Jewish uses digital storytelling to spark connections to Judaism for learners of all ages.
Hey Alma!
Hey Alma is a feminist Jewish culture site and online community emphasizing a diversity of voices.
Book list
Articles
- How to Build a Jewish Identity from Scratch
- How I Found My Own Atypical Jewish Community After Converting
- I Was Just Finding My Place in the Jewish Community, then Came the Pandemic
Books
Choosing a Jewish Life, Revised and Updated: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends — Anita Diamant
Living a Jewish Life, Updated and Revised Edition: Jewish Traditions, Customs and Values for Today’s Families — Anita Diamant
Settings of Silver — Stephen Wylen
The Story of the Jews (two volumes) — Simon Schama
- Volume 1: Finding the Words: 1000 BC-1492 AD
- Volume 2 Belonging: 1492-1900
First Hebrew Primer — Ethelyn Simon
Prayerbook Hebrew the Easy Way — Joseph Anderson
A Life of Meaning: Embracing Reform Judaism’s Sacred Path — Rabbi Dana Evan Kaplan
Honoring Tradition, Embracing Modernity: A Reader for the Reform Judaism’s Introduction to Judaism Course — Created in partnership between the CCAR and URJ