With news of the Conservative movement’s decision to move toward greater inclusion of gays and lesbians a hot topic among Jewish students, reactions from UF campus Jewish leadership ranged from acceptance and agreement to slight criticism.
“The Torah condemns anal sex between men. As far as I know, that is the only prohibition,” said Faculty Advisor for the UF Jewish Student Union Howard Rothman, adding “Therefore, gays and lesbians should be part of religious and social communities and should be able to participate in synagogue services to the best of their abilities.”
UF Campus Rabbi Jonathan Siger also approved of the Conservative movement’s decision, but observed an “interesting” loophole.
“At the same time, you should note that there is room made for individual rabbis and their congregations to make their own decisions about hiring a homosexual rabbi,” said Rabbi Siger, explaining “In other words, the movement now says it is acceptable to ordain gays, but also says that it is okay to discriminate against them when hiring.” Siger added, “We live in interesting times.”
“If there are gay students that wish to become conservative rabbis, they will now be able to do so…If there are gay students that want a conservative rabbi to officiate at their wedding, they may now be able to fine one to do so,” Siger said, adding “Other than that, I hope it will inspire more students to come to Hillel and argue about the issue at our Friday night Shabbat dinners.”