What are the major issues in locating a rabbi for my interfaith ceremony?
All Orthodox and Conservative rabbis as well as most Reform and Reconstructionists will routinely refuse to officiate at interfaith ceremonies. There is, however, a legitimate group from the latter two denominations that will officiate. The greatest issue seems to be the wide variety of conditions that dictate officiation. Unfortunately, few rabbis will officiate with the broad latitude that most couples desire. Based on the shortage of these sought after rabbis, there are an increasing number of less than legitimate individuals who have moved onto the scene in the past few years. Armed with questionable ordinations from questionable institutions, they have been known to advertise publicly. Sadly, in addition to their illegitimate status, they are also, for the most part, untrained in the skills of rabbinic ministry. Please find someone legitimate! Only affiliated Reform, Reconstructionist, and Humanistic rabbis should be selected for your special ceremony.
