Central Reform Congregation (St. Louis, Missouri)

 synagogue, judaism

Central Reform Congregation, or CRC, is a reformed Jewish synagogue located in the Central West End of Saint Louis. CRC is led by Rabbi Susan Talve, a co-founder of the synagogue. Talve has recieved many awards and praise for her community involvement, but has also been at the center of a number of controversies due to her unrelenting commitment to promoting progressive values in the community. Most recently, Talve came under serious criticism from Raymond Burke, the Arch Bishop of Saint Louis, for allowing the ordination of a female priest to be held at CRC. This sort of unwavering commitment to liberal values typifies what makes Susan Talve such a unique religious leader.
Founded in 1984 by 10 families, CRC has built a membership of over 800 families by embracing a philosophy of putting emphasis not only on religious practice, but also on community activism and social consciousness. CRC welcomes anyone to attend their services, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. The temple has become known for its unpretentious, accepting approach to religion and is widely praised for its ongoing dialogue with the Christian and Muslim communities is Saint Louis. Each year during the Jewish High Holidays, CRC holds the largest services in the city, with attendance climbing into the thousands.
The CRC website can be viewed at www.centralreform.org