Central Reform Temple

Central Reform Temple is a liberal, inclusive Reform Jewish Congregation committed to the opportunities, challenges and diversity of urban life. We welcome all who are seeking to experience Judaism's universal spiritual ideals and traditions, regardless of religious background. We extend a special invitation to interfaith and multicultural families, LGBT people and residents of Boston's city neighborhoods. Together we seek to create a community of worship, learning and service, grounded in the timeless Jewish vision of a "house of prayer for all people," and responding to the mandate of our Hebrew Prophets to work for justice and peace in the world.
Together we seek to create a new community of worship, learning, and service, grounded in the timeless Jewish vision of a "house of prayer for all people," and responding to the mandate of our Hebrew Prophets to work for justice and peace in the world.
Central Reform Temple had its origin in June, 2004, when Rabbis Howard Berman and Devon Lerner decided to create a new alternative High Holy Day experience for the Boston community. Recognizing the need for a progressive, inclusive Jewish experience for a variety of constituencies in the city's central neighborhoods, Central Reform Temple was conceived as a special outreach to interfaith and multicultural families, LGBT people, urban dwellers and all spiritual seekers interested in an accessible encounter with the liberal ideals and traditions of Reform Judaism. 
Our inaugural worship services were held on Rosh Hashanah, as guests of Arlington Street Church, coincidentally making these the first Jewish Services to be held in Back Bay in Boston history. Rabbi David Kudan participated in presenting special Family services on the afternoons of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. With an enthusiastic response from the 250 people who attended our worship, BPJS was born.
A major challenge facing America and the world today, is the necessity of a renewed and vital voice for the liberal religious community of our nation. In this time of strident political and religious conservatism and extremism, we progressive people of faith need to deepen our commitment and strengthen our support for inclusion, diversity and a broader perspective of "moral values." We hope that BJS can emerge as a meaningful setting and resource in these efforts.