How do Masorti communities around the world face the same challenges we do, including fears about generational continuity, halachic approaches to inclusion, or changes to liturgy? How do we help young adults build meaningful Jewish lives, or even attract them to our communities? What is the impact of internal factionalism around Israel and rising antisemitism? How do we deepen observance and encourage learning? These are questions that Masorti communities everywhere are living with, and there is so much we can learn from one another in how we respond.
Masorti Olami brings together these conversations on a global scale, connecting and supporting communities across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Australia.
This week, Masorti Olami held its Annual General Meeting and Conference in Santiago, the first time it has taken place in Latin America. The choice of location reflects the region’s central role in Masorti Judaism today, as Latin America’s Masorti presence is even larger than that of Europe. The meeting aimed to reflect on the relevance of Masorti Judaism at a global level, address the challenges it faces today, and chart long-term actions that will strengthen our values and traditions.
Masorti Europe currently supports communities in France, Germany, Hungary, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the UK. By contrast, Masorti AmLat brings together more than 85 communities across 11 countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and Uruguay.
Argentina is home to the largest Jewish community in Latin America, with around 180,000 Jews. Remarkably, some 80% identify as Masorti, making it the country’s most widely embraced Jewish denomination. The region also boasts a network of 15 Jewish day schools connected to the movement, whose curricula are enriched by the Jerusalem-based Schechter Institute’s TALI Program.
At the heart of rabbinical training in Latin America stands the Seminario Rabínico Latinoamericano in Buenos Aires. Since its founding in 1962, the Seminario has ordained over 100 rabbis, ensuring the continuity of vibrant Masorti leadership.
As a global movement, we know that we are strengthened not only by supporting one another, but also by learning from one another. We have much to share, and just as much to learn. It is through this mutual exchange that we can truly build a vibrant Jewish future together.
