Partnerships

In the United States, the National Council of Synagogues (composed of representatives from the Rabbinical Assembly and the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, the Central Conference of American Rabbis and the Union of American Hebrew Congregations) meets regularly to plan dialogues and discussions with the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, with the National Council of Churches, and with other major religious groups. Each meeting revolves around an area of common study examining papers and discussions, as well as contemporary issues and concerns. Every attempt is made to emerge from such meetings with statements that reflect a common concern or agenda as well as the development of common programmatic thrusts. One such effort between the National Council of Synagogues and the National Conference of Catholic Bishops has resulted in a six part video series to expose the points of commonality and difference between Catholics and Jews. The videos are to be used on the congregational level as tools for educational discussion. 

In the international arena, the Rabbinical Assembly participates with other religious streams and several major organizations in the International Jewish Committee for Interfaith Consultation. Under IJCIC auspices, discussions are held directly with representatives of the Vatican, the Orthodox Church, Protestant world leadership, and world religious leadership. The Rabbinical Assembly sends representation to these bodies and, in 2003-2004, is chairing both bodies.

The executive director of the National Council of Synagogues is Rabbi Gilbert S. Rosenthal.