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.

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Mission Statement

As Humanistic Jews, we celebrate our Jewish identity and culture consistent with a humanistic philosophy of life.

We celebrate our holidays and recognize life cycle events, understanding that is is under human power that they came to be.

Philosophy

Humanistic Jews Affirm that...
	A Jew is someone who identifies with the history, culture and future of the Jewish people.
	Jewish identity is best preserved in a free, pluralistic environment.
	Jewish history is a human saga, a testament to the significance of human power and human responsibility.
	Judaism is the historic culture of the Jewish people.
	We possess the power and responsibility to shape our own lives independent of supernatural authority.
	Ethics and morality should serve human needs.
	The freedom and dignity of the Jewish people must go hand in hand with the freedom and dignity of every human being.

Are You A Humanistic Jew?
Take this simple True or False Test:

True or False:
1. Judaism is not only a religion; it's also the culture and history of the Jewish people.

True or False:
2. You have the power and responsibility to shape your own life independent of supernatural authority.

True or False:
3. You would like to experience Jewish celebrations (High Holidays, Chanukkah, Pesach, Shabbat and others) with Hebrew songs, poetry and philosophic reflection.

True or False:
4. You want to teach your children Hebrew, Jewish history, culture and the ethics and values of Judaism.

If you think that all of these statements are true, you may be a Humanistic Jew.
Now, ask yourself one more question. Is there a place where I can find other people who feel as I do?

The answer to this is an easy one: Yes. Join Congregation Beth Haskalah.