Whereas the strength of the Conservative/Masorti Movement lies in serving Jewish communities the world over;
Whereas Masorti Olami (the World Council) has embarked upon a vigorous campaign to expand Conservative Masorti communities in Europe and Australia, and to strengthen existing communities in Latin America; and
Whereas there is a need for rabbinic leadership, religious educators, and increased financing to support these efforts.
Therefore be it resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly:
- applaud and support the efforts of Masorti Olami;
- call for the establishment of a rabbinic development fund to help support the work of rabbis outside of North America;
- request that the Placement Commission consider reducing seniority rules for colleagues willing to serve outside of North America; and
- call for the establishment of opportunities for foreign language study for rabbinical students to develop a cadre of rabbis capable of service in countries other than North America.
Passed by the Rabbinical Assembly Plenum, April, 2003