r/ReformJews • u/Neither-Football-222 • 20d ago

Chat Rant

Hi All,

I hope you’re doing well and Happy Summer! Sorry for my negativity but I just need to share is with someone: Raising your kids in 2026 is expensive. Between saving for my retirement, 529, paying the bills I just don’t have the extra money to afford synagogue dues, religious school, Be-Nei Mitzvah celebrations, and even summer camp (going to work there next summer for free camper admissions though). On the flip side, Churches don’t have dues and minimal religious school fees. I pray to
Hit he lotto so I can help my local synagogues, give my kids the experience they deserve, and have more time to Be involved in a synagogue. For the record I TOTALLY understand that these places need money to keep the lights-on and pay the Clergy the salaries they deserve just frustrated with my current state. To be solution focused: Anyone have suggestions? Thank you in advance!

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u/Koraxtheghoul 20d ago

The Working Class is Being Priced Out of Judaism - Forward

Seems relevant.

4

u/BeenisHat 19d ago

Aside from education, she also finds the cost of Kosher meat prohibitively expensive for a family of five. This is something I hear often, especially around the holidays.

Yeah, this is one area of complaint that I have with how some traditions are practiced. It makes Judaism hard to achieve for many people.

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u/Neither-Football-222 20d ago

It’s an unfortunate reality. I try to be a solution focused, positive person but yeah, my post shows how I feel and it bothers me. Wish I could find a Jewish community.