Hiddur: The Center for Aging and Judaism envisions a spiritually engaged approach to the second half of life, in which the generations are connected and elders act as a transformational force in society.

Established in 2003 by the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, Hiddur draws its name and vision from the biblical command "Bring splendor (hiddur) to the elders" (Leviticus 19:32). Hiddur prepares future rabbis at RRC to serve and engage the surging numbers of Jews in later life. Through dynamic academic, practical and co-curricular learning, students at RRC receive unparalleled preparation for the unprecedented challenges and opportunities faced by Jews beyond midlife. Our graduates bring Hiddur’s vision to their work in congregations, eldercare communities and communal organizations.

We are currently refocusing our efforts, and our Web site is under construction, with some pages reflecting our past activities. We look forward to fully updating the site in the near future and to continuing to share our work.

Highlights From Our Work

In November 2009, Hiddur and UJA-Federation of New York co-sponsored a major conference, Addressing the Spiritual Journey of Jews Beyond Midlife. This groundbreaking event featured over 25 acclaimed presenters from across the Jewish spectrum. Professional and lay leaders from the realms of eldercare, synagogue life, Jewish education and spiritual care shared experiences and inspiration. 

Listen to Rabbi Dayle Friedman’s complete keynote address as well as audio clips from other presenters. Download the toolkit (as a PDF) with resources, tools and links from each session. 

Read an article about the conference and its diverse presenters. 

Hiddur hosted Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi via teleconference as part of the compelling series "On Being an Elder." Read more about the event and see video clips of a conversation with Rabbi Dayle Friedman. Read the feature story in The Jewish Exponent.