BethHaskalah, society for humanistic judaism in Rochester, NY

Congregation Beth Haskalah

Welcome - Humanistic Judaism embraces a human-centered philosophy that combines the celebration of Jewish culture and identity with an adherence to humanistic values and ideas.

Home | Mission Statement | Activities | Life Cycle Ceremonies | Contact us

Humanistic Judaism offers a nontheistic alternative in contemporary Jewish life. It was established by Rabbi Sherwin T. Wine in 1963 in Detroit, Michigan, and has grown into a worldwide movement.

Humanistic Jews value their Jewish identity and the aspects of Jewish culture that offer a genuine expression of their contemporary way of life. Humanistic Jewish communities celebrate Jewish holidays and life cycle events (such as weddings and bar and bat mitzvah) with inspirational ceremonies that draw upon but go beyond traditional literature.

Congregation Beth Haskalah is a gathering of dedicated people who find humanistic Judaism compatible with contemporary life. Our celebration of Judaism is secular in approach with the appreciation of Jewish culture, history and identity. We celebrate the value and richness of the human spirit.

We are fortunate to have an ordained Madrikh, who performs Baby Namings, Bat/Bar Mitzvahs, Weddings, Funerals and all other Life Cycle and Life Changing ceremonies.

Everyone is welcome. For more information, please go to: contact us.

6 year old Pahz and 45 year old David Cherelin, active Beth Haskalah members, brave the cold and crowds to visit DC for Obama's inauguration. See photos below.

Please refer to the following articles on Pahz and David's DC experience:

http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2009/01/a_father_teache.html?s_campaign15

http://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/200901210300/OBAMAINAUGURATION10/301220016

Our Humanistic congregation gathers together to celebrate holidays, life cycle events and education. We are a close group, but are open to new members, ideas and activities. My family is very happy to be part of the Beth Haskalah family.

Beth Garver Beha, Beth Haskalah member

See Activities page for updated events for 2009/2010 !

Humanistic Judaism was established in 1963 to provide a humanistic alternative in Jewish life. The Society for Humanistic Judaism (SHJ) was founded in 1969. Jewish communities throughout the United States and Canada are affiliated with the SHJ. The International Federation of Secular Humanistic Jews was established in 1986. In a little more than 30 years, Humanistic Judaism has spread to every continent.