ARR 54-55

CCAR RESPONSA

American Reform Responsa

15. Refusing a Jew Membership

(Vol. LXIII, 1953, pp. 154-155)QUESTION: Does the Board of a Temple have the right to refuse to accept the application for membership in the congregation of a Jew whose character and business activities are thought to be reprehensible? Should it exercise such a right?ANSWER: The pertinent principle that has always obtained in Judaism finds its best expression in the Talmudic dictums: “Even though sinful, one remains an Israelite” (Sanh. 44a). A Jew does not cease to be a Jew because of any dereliction of duty. Yet the heads of the synagogue may refuse to accept a financial contribution from a man who they know has acquired his possessions dishonestly (B.K. ll9a). Thus, while a notoriously dishonest person may be excluded from membership in a congregation, since such membership entails the payment of dues, he must not be denied any of the services which the synagogue can offer. It is questionable, however, whether the method of exclusion, even where legally permissible, is calculated to achieve the end which the heads of the congregation have in view. Much more, it would seem, could be accomplished by bringing the Jew of ill repute under the influence of the synagogue and its teachings.Israel Bettan

If needed, please consult Abbreviations used in CCAR Responsa.