One initiative of the Union for Reform Judaism is to recognize and support the non-Jewish spouse. Here is an excerpt from the URJ mission statement on this subject:

"THE BLESSING OF THE GEREI TOSHAV"

Excerpted from an article by Rabbi David B. Cohen, Congregation Sinai, Milwaukee, WI

"Even in biblical times, Jews met and fell in love with non-Jews. Take Moses, for example, who married Tzipporah, the daughter of a Midianite priest. Even then, the non-Jews who dwelled among us—referred to biblically as gerei toshav, or resident aliens—were the support and help that made Jewish existence possible.

Have things really changed? Consider: How often is the non-Jewish partner the one who maintains the rhythms of the Jewish homes? Whether lighting candles for Shabbat or a holiday, wrapping Chanukah packages, preparing charoset for a seder, planning the details of a baby naming or bat mitzvah or driving in the carpool—it is often the non-Jewish partner in the proverbial driver’s seat.
That so many choose to contribute to Jewish continuity is astounding and a blessing we ought not take for granted. Even more, the gerei toshav in our midst sometimes do so at great personal sacrifice. It is clear that the gerei toshav in our congregation and other Reform congregations everywhere have added immeasurably by their presence and participation. Every Jewish family, very Jewish child, is precious. To those gerei toshav who have made this possible, we owe the highest debt of gratitude. Let’s not take this blessing for granted. Let’s make sure the gerei toshav in our midst feel as welcome as they should."

Temple Emanuel Outreach will be supporting this initiative with programs dedicated to the gerei toshav of our congregation. Our congregation highly values our non-Jewish members and is committed to providing well-deserved recognition and support to these congregants.