CCAR RESPONSA
Contemporary American Reform Responsa
196. Twenty-fifth Anniversary of a Mixed
Marriage
QUESTION: A couple, in which the husband is Jewish and wife
is Christian, has been happily married for twenty-five years. Their children have been raised as
Jews and the oldest among them is now a member of the congregation. The family has
participated in the life of the congregation in every way, including a term of service by the
husband on the Board of the Congregation. The rabbi is a friend of the couple. The couple was
originally married by a judge. Now they have asked the rabbi to participate in the anniversary
celebration by performing a service of rededication, before a party at home, after twenty-five
years. Should the rabbi participate or should he decline on the grounds that he does not officiate
at mixed marriages? (J. F., Miami, FL) ANSWER: There is, of course, nothing in
the traditional literature which deals with this subject. For a full discussion of mixed marriage and
the halakhic basis for not officiating, let me refer you to the resolutions of the C.C.A.R.
and W. Jacob, American Reform Responsa (#148 ff). There is also no discussion in any
literature about a ceremony of rededication. Nothing akin to it seems to have been used in the
past. As the couple has participated actively in the congregation throughout their married life,
this might be an appropriate time to suggest the conversion of the non-Jewish spouse, especially
as her entire family is Jewish. Under these circumstances, no formal period of study would be
necessary; conversion would indicate official acceptance into the Jewish community. Following
that, a marriage ceremony, with appropriate modifications, could take place. If the
non-Jewish spouse does not wish to convert, a simple prayer of rededication, rather than a
service, would be appropriate; the rabbi may participate in the private setting. We make this
decision on the principle that lehat-hilah, we can not officiate in a mixed marriage, but
bediavad, we will accept the couple, work with them and help them lead a Jewish life.
The occasion should have no overtones of a marriage ceremony and should stress the couple’s
participation in Jewish life and in the congregation. Everything should be done in a way which
would stress that there has been no change in the rabbi’s policy on mixed marriage, nor should it
have the appearance of representing any change.October 1984
If needed, please consult Abbreviations used in CCAR Responsa.