Interfaith Initiatives

Temple Israel and Jewish Community Center is an active, enthusiastic participant in Ridgewood’s interfaith endeavors.

Rabbi Fine’s Leadership

Rabbi Fine has served as president of the Ridgewood Interfaith Clergy Council and meets regularly with the spiritual leaders of the village’s diverse faith communities. The interfaith council, as well as village officials, collaborate on a number of programs and activities throughout the year to advance mutual understanding, acceptance of differences, and genuine respect among all residents.

Annual Highlights

  • Martin Luther King Day Observance (includes Glen Rock faith groups)
  • Interfaith Holocaust Remembrance Day Service
  • Disability Awareness Service (in partnership with Ridgewood’s ACCESS Program)
  • Interfaith Thanksgiving Service
  • Menorah lighting in Ridgewood’s Van Neste Square

Social Action Projects

In addition to these village-wide initiatives, congregants spearhead and support social action projects that cross faith communities, such as the Bergen County homeless feeding program; an interfaith blood drive; environmental cleanup, in partnership with Ridgewood Wildscape Association; and drives to assist victims of domestic violence, restock local food pantries, and donate clothing and personal care items to needy neighbors. More about these efforts and how to join our corps of dedicated volunteers may be found here.