The City Congregation for Humanistic Judaism provides a welcoming, diverse community for cultural and
secular Jews where we can celebrate and preserve our Jewish identity. As Humanistic Jews we rely on
reason, inner strength, and the support of community to face life's challenges and collectively improve the
world. -- Our Mission Statement
We are a diverse group of people of all ages--babies to
retirees--and all backgrounds. Our commitment to a message of
tolerance and respect is exemplified by the diversity of race,
ethnicity, religious affiliation and belief that characterizes our
membership. We are united by our common desire to enrich ourselves
through the celebration of our Jewish identity, and by fostering our
own Jewish knowledge and that of our children.
We are singles, single parent families, and two-parent
families of varied multi-cultural origins, family configurations and
gender orientations. We are Jews by birth and Jews by choice. And some
of our members are the non-Jewish partners and families of our members.
They have also come to enjoy the celebrations of our culture and have
been welcomed as full members of our community.
We come from throughout the New York tri-state area -- Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, Westchester, Long Island, and New Jersey -- to be part of this wonderful community.
Like any other congregation, some members come primarily for our
KidSchool, others for our Shabbat programs and High Holiday
celebrations. Whether you are seeking intellectual stimulation or
secular spirituality, you will find a home here. No matter the nature
of one's connection, or what combination of programs and activities one
attends, all are welcome and vital members of our community.
If you were raised in a secular home, with much Jewish knowledge and
awareness, or none at all, we may be the place for you. That's because
City Congregation is a place where you can maintain your Jewish identity or explore
or deepen it in a warm, accepting community.
If, on the other hand, you had a religious upbringing and
perhaps were even previously affiliated, but found that traditional
teachings are incompatible with your own beliefs, we may be the place
for you. That's because City Congregation is a place where you can celebrate your
Jewish identity without compromising your own values and ideals.
If you are unabashedly atheist or agnostic, you will feel at
home at City Congregation. That's because this is a place where you can espouse those
beliefs without apology.
And, on the other hand, if you are comfortable with a belief
in a higher power yet live your life with an emphasis on human
responsibility, then you, too, will feel welcome in our community.
Our backgrounds may be different. We may not speak in one
voice. In fact, that's what makes us an exciting, vibrant community.
Can this be your home too? We hope so!