The Academy of Jewish Religion, a pluralistic seminary, dedicated a new, 8,500-square foot teaching, library and administrative building on Jan. 27. It’s proof, the academy says, that it’s growing, and that pluralism is catching on.
Established in 1956 and most recently based in Riverdale, the academy moved to Yonkers to expand its space due to increased demand for its graduates from synagogues. It currently has 60 students.
“More seem to be looking for answers outside of established denominations,” Ora Horn Prouser, the school’s academic dean, said. “The concept of “pluralism” is attracting increased attention.”
150 people attended the dedication ceremony, including Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano, who brought the scissors he typically uses at such events.
“When the mayor said he was bringing scissors, I didn’t understand why,” Prouser said. “Now I get it. Pretty funny.”
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