The Michigan synagogue that came under attack Thursday is part of Reform Judaism, the largest branch of the religion in North America, which emphasizes progressive values such as social justice and gender equality.
According to the Union for Reform Judaism, Temple Israel’s congregation is the second-largest in the denomination.
The synagogue was founded in 1941 in Detroit and relocated to suburban West Bloomfield in the 1980s. The congregation counts about 3,500 families and over 12,000 members, according to the temple’s website. It has a calendar full of social, educational and religious activities.
It was the latest in a spate of recent attacks targeting religious buildings — which has intensified fear among religious leaders and worshippers worldwide.
Here’s what to know about the Jewish community in Michigan.
What is Reform Judaism
The Reform denomination, part of the wider progressive Judaism, values Jewish tradition along with the use of reason and individual conscience.
Rabbis, leaders and practitioners often support social and racial justice along with gender equality and LGBTQ+ people.
According to Temple Israel’s website, its mission is to “be an inclusive congregation that demonstrates respect for the needs of all,” valuing each person as “created in the image of God.”
Women can become rabbis in Reform communities. And in contrast to the rules in more traditional denominations, Reform rabbis are allowed to perform interfaith marriages.
The movement’s roots date to 19th century
It traces its roots to Jewish communities in Germany and the United States in the 19th century. Original founders moved away from traditional ceremonial observances and literal interpretations of the Hebrew Bible and instead emphasized the use of reason a …