Sep 28, 2023

Federation Partners Help Answer the Call for an Increase in Non-Rabbinate Marriages in Israel

One of Federation’s longtime priorities has been helping Israelis exercise choice around their Jewish identity and practice. With a rise in interest in civil marriages in Israel, our participation in iRep, the Israel Religious Expression Platform, is more important than ever. The coalition of 34 Jewish federations work together to advance the legitimacy and support for diverse Jewish expression in Israel, such as the freedom of choice in marriage for all Israelis and pluralistic options for celebrating B’nai Mitzvah and other life cycle events. Current iRep grantees Chuppot and Israel Hofsheet, which advocate for civil Jewish marriage ceremonies outside the control of the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, have seen an increase of 16 and 22 percent, respectively, in the demand for their services during the first half of 2023, compared to the same period the past year. Click here to learn more about iRep and other special initiatives supported by Federation.