Protocols of the three founding conferences

The idea of a Synod to provide authoritative guidance and meet the current needs of Jews in the era of Emancipation led to the holding of rabbinical conferences in Germany in the mid-19th century. An initial convention was initiated by Ludwig Philippson and attended by 25 Reform rabbis whose stated purpose was to strengthen Judaism by rescuing it from legalistic stagnation and adapting it to modern needs, thus making it attractive to a new generation. Later proposed reforms referred to the abolition of the messianic portions of the prayers along with supplication for the restoration of sacrifices and the centrality of the Land of Israel. It was suggested that the Sabbath day be transferred to the civil day of rest, the second day of Festivals be abolished and the use of an organ become a standard part of synagogue worship. The conferences were criticized by all sectors: The Orthodox protested against the rejection of Jewish tradition, yet discussions and results were also opposed from both Reform wings - moderate and radical. Nonetheless, these three conferences shaped the identity of the nascent Reform Movement whose impact on the face of contemporary Jewry is not to be underestimated.