Synagogue Visioning and Planning:

Task Forces at Work

We are beginning to reap the benefits of the work done through the Synagogue Visioning and Planning process. The four task forces established at the last stakeholders meeting in October have been working to make Temple Beth El more responsive to our congregants needs.

The Leadership and Governance Task Force is diligently working on a revision and update of the Constitution that guides the Board of Directors and the leadership of the Temple. Their work has already had a positive effect. Their recommendations regarding changes to the Nominating Committee have been put in place, making the Nominating Committee more reflective of the diversity of our congregants. This has resulted in a diligent effort to replace those board members who will not continue in their positions. The task force will make a complete report at the Annual Meeting.

The issues brainstormed by the Social Task Force have been partially incorporated into the work of the Membership Committee.

The Interfaith Task Force consists of Karen Farber, Joy Krinsky, Rabbi Braun, Nancy Brennerman, David Brennerman, Ben Marcus and Charlie Miller. They have identified two tasks that they hope to accomplish in the short term.

The first is a brochure or pamphlet that highlights the diversity of our congregation with respect to interfaith couples and families. The goal is not to focus on do's or don't's and rules but instead simply to demonstrate that TBE has many interfaith families in the congregation, some of whom are very involved in synagogue life. Current and prospective interfaith families should know that they are not alone at TBE.

The second project is a more legalistic document that answers FAQs about interfaith life at TBE. Many interfaith families do not know what the rules of the road are and are therefore hesitant to become involved lest they offend someone or break a rule. This project is intended to be educational, and through education, to encourage participation.

The task force invites other interested congregants to join in these and other projects.

In addition, the Steering Committee will meet with Bob Leventhal from the Alban Institute in June to review the status of the task forces and to continue the work begun by the Stakeholders.

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