Reform makes a qualified exception to government funding, post-Sandy

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I sought Reform comment last week when I wrote about how Jewish organizations were split on government funding to rebuild synagogues damaged by Superstrom Sandy.

I didn’t get it in time for the story, but noted that the movement has traditionally opposed such funding, citing church-state separations.

I got an answer Monday, and surprisingly, the movement’s posture is not as determinative as it’s been in the past.

From Religious Action Center spokesman Sean Thibault:

In general, we have serious constitutional concerns about this type of funding. However, we recognize that this aid is, in certain respects, distinct from other forms of aid that we have historically opposed.  We continue to work with congregations to help them understand the varied constitutional & policy concerns before each synagogue makes their own decisions.

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