专辑简介

This historic worship traditions of liberal Judaism in American, known as Classical Reform, represent a distinctive stage in the development of Jewish liturgy through the centuries. The style and structure of the Reform synagogue service have evolved over 200 years, beginning with the emergence of liberal Judaism in Germany in the 19th century, and culminating in this contemporary interpretation of Jewish tradition in America. The classic expression of this tradition has been the Union Prayer Book, which was first published in 1895 and became the standard liturgy of the Reform movement. The "UPB" in its later revisions is still greatly loved and has influenced its successors. This tradition embraces a meaningful, participatory worship experience that expresses a deep personal spirituality. This tradition embraces a meaningful, participatory worship experience that expresses a deep personal spirituality. It affirms a primarily English Language text, enriched by the timeless elements of Hebrew prayer and song that symbolically link us to our past and to our fellow Jews throughout the world. Classical Reform worship also embraces the role of inspiring choral and instrumental music of the highest standards - drawing on both the great musical literature that has been the distinctive heritage of the Reform synagogue, as well as the new works of contemporary composers.

This recording is of the Sabbath Eve Service from the Union Prayer Book - Sinai Edition, published in 2000 as a contemporary and gender-inclusive language version of the historic text. The prayers and meditations reflect the broad, universal spirit of Classical Reform Judaism, and its affirmation of the significance of the Jewish experience in America. The Society for Classical Reform Judaism offers this recording as a spiritual resource for those many Jews who cherish the majestic cadences, broad spirit and great music of the liberal Jewish tradition.