Two hundred Years of Progressive Judaism in Polish Lands - in commemoration of Rabbi Leo Baeck‘s 70th anniversary of his passing

2026 will mark a series of significant anniversaries in the history of Polish Jewry—moments that offer a unique opportunity to explore the enduring legacy of progressive Judaism in Poland. Together with the University of Potsdam (School of Jewish Theology), we cordially invite your participation in an academic conference at Adam Mickiewicz University of Poznan to unite current research, foster dialogue among leading scholars, and open new perspectives on this vibrant tradition.

Several landmark events will converge in 2026, providing a compelling backdrop for our conference:

- 200th Anniversary of the Warsaw Rabbinical Seminary (1826–1861): Founded by the Russian authorities, the Seminary educated a lay elite that played a pivotal role in Poland's acculturation and religious transformation.

- 100th Anniversary of the World Union for Progressive Judaism (1926): Established in London and expanded to Poland in 1929 through Rabbi Dr Max Lasker, this organisation strengthened ties and fostered a spirit of renewal within Polish progressive Judaism.

- 90th Anniversary of the Congress of Progressive Synagogues (1936): Organised by the Union of Academically Trained Rabbis in Poland, this congress led to the creation of the Central Union of Progressive Synagogues, marking a milestone in communal organisation.

- 70th Anniversary of Rabbi Leo Baeck’s Passing (1956): Celebrated internationally, Rabbi Baeck was born in Leszno (Lissa) in 1873, served as rabbi in Opole (Oppeln), and presided over the World Union for Progressive Judaism between 1939 and 1953. His deep ties to Polish Jewry and enduring friendship with figures like Leon Ader exemplify the interconnectedness of progressive movements across Europe.

- 90th Anniversary of Rabbi Abraham Ozjasz Thon’s Death (1870–1936): Leader of Kraków’s progressive congregation and a significant voice in Jewish religious renewal.

These anniversaries invite critical reflection on the evolution, achievements, and challenges of progressive Judaism in Poland over two centuries.

Conference Objectives:

The university of Potsdam and the Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan join forces
- to examine the historical trajectory of progressive Judaism in Poland, from its early roots to contemporary expressions.
- to present new research and interdisciplinary perspectives, bridging history, philosophy, and religious studies.
- to commemorate influential figures such as Rabbi Leo Baeck, Mojżesz Moszkowski, Rabbi Izaak Cylkow, and Rabbi Abraham Ozjasz Thon.
- to foster dialogue between Polish and international scholars, communities, and institutions.

Reisestipendien sind für Studierende erhältlich. Im Rahmen des Kooperationsabkommens zwischen UP und AMU.