Recent studies point to declining synagogue membership and denominational identification as signs of a crisis in American Judaism. This symposium focuses attention on theological dimensions of the perceived crisis. Six leading thinkers come together to share their unique vantage points on a series of questions: Is American Judaism theologically bankrupt or is it at the cusp of a radically new beginning? How should we diagnose this perceived crisis and what proposals might counter it? How can American Judaism build on traditional Jewish thought to address today’s challenges?

Presenters include: Dr. Rachel Adler, professor of modern Jewish thought and Judaism and gender, Hebrew Union College-Los Angeles; Rabbi Saul Berman, professor of Jewish studies, Yeshiva University, and founder of Edah; Dr. Arnold M. Eisen, chancellor and professor of Jewish thought, Jewish Theological Seminary, and professor emeritus of religious studies, Stanford University; Rabbi Dr. David Ellenson, president and Grancell Professor of Jewish religious thought, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion; Rabbi Dr. Arthur Green, rector of the Rabbinical School, professor of religion at Hebrew College in Boston, and former dean and president of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College; Dr. Riv-Ellen Prell, professor of American studies, University of Minnesota.

This symposium is free, but reservations are required at uofcconference@spertus.edu .