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5 Major Updates From The Central Conference Of American Rabbis (CCAR) That Define Reform Judaism In 2025

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The Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR), the oldest and largest rabbinical organization in the world, remains the definitive voice for the Reform Jewish Movement, actively shaping North American Jewish life through its leadership, publications, and powerful social justice advocacy. As of today, December 22, 2025, the CCAR has had a pivotal year, marked by significant leadership changes, major conventions, and timely responses to global events, all guided by the prophetic call for *tzedek* (justice) and *kavod* (dignity).

This article provides an in-depth look at the most recent and crucial developments emanating from the CCAR throughout 2025, highlighting its continued commitment to applying Jewish thought and texts to current societal issues, strengthening the Reform rabbinate, and furthering the central mission of *Tikkun Olam* (repairing the world).

The Central Conference of American Rabbis: A Profile in Rabbinic Leadership

The CCAR is not merely a professional guild; it is the institutional backbone of the Reform Movement, founded in 1889 by the visionary Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise. Its mission is to enrich and strengthen the Jewish community by providing resources, ethical guidance, and a collective voice for its members—the Reform rabbis of the United States and Canada.

  • Organization Name: Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR)
  • Founded: 1889
  • Founder: Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise
  • Headquarters: New York, NY
  • Current President (Installed 2025): Rabbi David Lyon
  • Chief Executive: Rabbi Hara Person
  • Affiliation: Reform Jewish Movement (largest Jewish movement in North America)
  • Core Mission: To provide Reform Rabbinic leadership, publish essential Jewish texts, and advocate for social justice through Resolutions.
  • Key Collaborators: Union for Reform Judaism (URJ), Religious Action Center (RAC).

1. New Presidential Leadership Installed at the 136th Annual Convention

The most significant internal update for the CCAR in 2025 was the installation of its new President, Rabbi David Lyon, during the 136th Annual Convention. This major event, which serves as the highlight of the rabbinic year, took place from March 23–26, 2025, in downtown Chicago.

Rabbi David Lyon Takes the Helm

Rabbi David Lyon, who previously served as the Senior Rabbi of Congregation Beth Israel in Houston, Texas, was formally installed for his two-year term on Monday, March 24, 2025. Known as an innovative spiritual leader and educator, Rabbi Lyon's presidency is expected to emphasize inclusive participation, interfaith outreach, and making ancient Jewish teachings accessible in contemporary spiritual life. His installation speech focused on themes of "Hope, Clarity, and Purpose," setting the tone for the Reform Movement's work in a complex global environment. The Convention itself brought together over 450 Reform rabbis for deep learning, *chevruta* (study partnership), and professional development, reinforcing the bonds of the Reform rabbinate.

2. Immediate and Decisive Responses to Current Events in Late 2025

The CCAR’s role as the collective "Rabbinic Voice" is to apply Jewish tradition to contemporary human rights and social issues, primarily through official Statements and Resolutions. In late 2025, the organization demonstrated its commitment to this mandate by issuing several powerful condemnations and expressions of grief in response to national tragedies and political discourse.

A notable statement was released on December 1, 2025, where the CCAR publicly grieved the heinous shooting of two members of the West Virginia National Guard. Furthermore, a statement from June 10, 2025, saw the leadership of the Reform Movement—including the CCAR—unequivocally condemn an act described as "offensive and degrading," underscoring the organization's willingness to speak out against hate and disrespect in public life. These rapid, decisive statements confirm the CCAR’s position at the forefront of social and ethical commentary within North American Jewish life.

3. CCAR Press Publishes New Texts and Previews the 2026 Catalog

CCAR Press, the publishing arm of the Central Conference of American Rabbis, is a vital resource for the Jewish community, responsible for producing key texts, including prayer books, Torah commentaries, and educational materials. The year 2025 saw the announcement and release of several new publications that continue this tradition of enriching Jewish life and liturgy.

  • New Publication: *Moments* (October 2025): CCAR Press proudly announced the publication of a new work titled *Moments* in October 2025, demonstrating the ongoing creation of new spiritual and liturgical resources for rabbis and congregants.
  • Liturgical Commentary: The year also saw continued promotion of foundational works like *B'chol L'vavcha: With All Your Heart: A Commentary on the Prayer Book, Third Edition*, which provides deep scholarly insight into the Reform Movement's prayer life.
  • Looking Ahead: The organization is already looking forward, with its 2026 PDF Catalog available for browsing, ensuring that the Reform Movement's literary and spiritual pipeline remains strong and current.

These publications ensure that Reform Judaism remains a living, evolving faith, with texts that speak to the contemporary spiritual needs of its adherents, from the *Union Home Prayer Book* to modern commentaries on the *A Passover Haggadah*.

4. Renewed Focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

The CCAR’s commitment to social justice is enduring, often working jointly with the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) and the Religious Action Center (RAC). A key area of focus in 2025 was the reaffirmation of the movement's stance on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

In a joint statement with other Jewish groups on February 7, 2025, the CCAR explicitly endorsed and championed the principles of DEI. This statement came amid national debates and extremist attacks against freedom of religion, highlighting the CCAR’s dedication to building an inclusive Jewish community and a just society for all people. The Reform Rabbinic leadership views this work as a direct fulfillment of the Jewish obligation to pursue justice (*tzedek*) and uphold the dignity (*kavod*) of every human being, regardless of background or identity.

5. Planning for Future Conventions: San Francisco and Baltimore

The CCAR’s Annual Convention is a critical forum for professional development, theological debate, and the strengthening of the rabbinic community. Following the successful 2025 Convention in Chicago, the CCAR is actively planning its future gatherings, demonstrating stability and forward-looking leadership.

The schedule for upcoming conventions includes major cities on both coasts, ensuring broad participation across North America:

  • 2026 CCAR Convention: Slated to take place in San Francisco, California.
  • 2027 CCAR Convention: Scheduled for March 14–17, 2027, in Baltimore, Maryland.

These events provide essential opportunities for Reform rabbis to connect with Torah, enhance their professional skills, and reinforce their collective rabbinic leadership, ensuring the movement remains vibrant and responsive to the needs of its congregations. The forward planning signifies a robust and confident organization ready to meet the challenges of the coming years.

5 Major Updates from the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR) That Define Reform Judaism in 2025
central conference of american rabbis
central conference of american rabbis

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