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Faith inspires and ennobles people and it builds and sustains communities. The ideas and spirituality of the Jewish faith have been the guiding light for its adherents for centuries. And the means by which to continue Jewish traditions lays in the ability of Jews to relate to other faiths and adapt to the realities of the 21st century. Jewish Universalism states that all people of all faiths are under the consideration and Love of God and that all paths to the divine are equally holy. It requires members of the Jewish faith to accept all of God's children as brothers and sisters and to view the religious ideas, beliefs, opinions, of others in a non-judgmental way. There is a great craving for spirituality in the modern world. Indeed, many persons think of themselves as "spiritual, but not religious". A Rabbi, as a leader and teacher of the Torah, is duty-bound to reach out to such persons and help them expound and expand their inner life. And anyone who is looking to give greater meaning and character to their spiritual feeling ought not to be wary of speaking to a Rabbi. This is one of the ways in which Jewish Universalism, which is liberal in thought and traditional in liturgy, can work for the spiritual development of all those seeking a bit more in life. The online synagogue is one of ways in which liberal Rabbis are making Jewish Universalism accessible and non-intimidating. These forums allow persons in a community and throughout the world to accomplish "Tikkun Olam" by an unconditional acceptance of each other's peaceful doctrines and through G'milut Chasadim (Acts of Loving Kindness). People can also be full participants in liturgical services, which are transliterated into English so that everyone can join in joyous song and prayer. Jewish Universalism is also for members of the faith who feel a need to reconnect with its traditions or who are looking for an interpretation that is more open and liberal. Using modern technology to spread the message of peace, love, harmony, and good will is vital to the growth of Jewish Universalism. Sim Shalom's Rabbinical School is multi-denominational; maintains a curriculum that is delivered online and welcomes adherents of all streams of Judaism. If the hunger for purpose and community seems insatiable, then you may find the right spiritual food in Jewish Universalism. Its aim is not to make converts but to build bridges—bridges to other faiths and to fellow seekers of truth. And this is one of the most important tenants of this strand of Judaism: it rejects 'chosenness' or any implied superiority of our tradition or the rejection of any other tradition and affirms that God has chosen us- together with all humankind- to help repair and bring peace to the world. There is a place for all kinds of moral, religious, and spiritual feeling. Only by working together can we strive to be holy and gain a greater understanding of the ultimate purpose of our existence. Rabbi Blane is founder of Havurah Sim Shalom in New York City. He holds Weekly Online Services. He is also the founder and Dean of JSLI- The Jewish Spiritual Leader's Institute, an online Rabbinical School. Rabbi Blane believes there is a great need to train and prepare liberal rabbis to meet the needs of millions of unaffiliated Jews and Interfaith couples and their families. To learn more about Jewish Universalism and enrolling in an online synagogue please visit http://www.rabbi.net and http://www.simshalom.com
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