This month, St. Louis will host the Biannual gathering for Reform Judaism’s (URJ) North American Board, where more than 160 senior lay leaders representing the largest, most diverse movement in Jewish life will convene for four days of learning, prayer, and governance proceedings.

The St. Louis Jewish community including area Reform congregations, rabbis, cantors, adult and teen lay leaders will welcome the Reform movement leadership to St. Louis.

 During Shabbat evening services at Congregation Shaare Emeth on Friday, June 3, URJ President Rabbi Rick Jacobs will be a featured speaker, sharing his bold vision for the continued strength and future growth of Reform Judaism, which represents 900 congregations and 1.5 million people. The public is invited to attend.

North American Board Chair Daryl Messinger said, “Meeting in St. Louis provides the opportunity for URJ leadership to learn more about this important community and better understand the Reform Movement’s role in helping advance today’s most vital social justice issues. We are grateful to all of our local hosts for opening their doors to our Trustees, who represent Reform congregations and affiliate organizations from around North America and the world.” 

During the conference, participants will have opportunities to learn from and engage with community leaders including Jewish Federation of St. Louis President and CEO Andrew Rehfeld, Rabbi Susan Talve of Central Reform Congregation and Rabbi Andrea Goldstein of Congregation Shaare Emeth. Rabbi Brigitte Rosenberg of United Hebrew Congregation will welcome URJ’s Executive Team for a day of learning for St. Louis area Reform congregational leaders.