It has been one year since I was elected President. I took on this role with some trepidation; it is a major responsibility to ensure a community’s sustainability and I take this responsibility very seriously. This is especially weighty as synagogues are closing or merging everyday.
Many synagogues, Shomrei included, maintained their financial security from “angels” – families who gave substantial donations, beyond their dues or pledge commitment, to help the synagogue meet its already budgeted financial obligations. This is a financial model which is in the past and for Shomrei, many years in the past. As a result, Shomrei now needs to base its budget on the financial commitments made by its membership, a budget which meets the operational needs of our congregation but does not over extend. We need to do the things we need to do, not necessarily all the things we want to do. We also need to think about potential expenses, i.e. a new roof, and insure we have the future funds. This has taken discipline and the ability to say “no” or ask for trade offs. If we do this, what are we not doing? This had not always been popular or received well since we are operating at a $0 budget. This means we do not have extra money in the budget for new ideas unless we want to stop doing something meaningful we are already doing.
Building a stronger community also has its challenges. What is the definition of a stronger community? First, a growing community. For years, our membership was slowly shrinking as our membership aged. This year, the demographics have changed and our membership is getting younger. This has been great but not the only need for a stronger community. Ultimately, a stronger community means our congregants want to be involved; with leading or participating in services for Shabbat and holidays, with programs like Shabbat across Shomrei and Quiz Night, with social action like MESH and Syria Refugee Committee, with each other, in and out of the synagogue. It is encouraging every Shabbat to witness the multi generational Kiddush luncheons this year, a symbol of who we are as a community. But Kiddush is not enough. Becoming stronger also means being there to make a minyan or coming to Hinei MaTov on time so services can begin.
A question I ask when I am trying to gain insight is “what accomplishment are you most proud of this year”. For me, (1)19 new member families have chosen to join our community. (2)We have achieved a balanced budget for the third year and are self-sustaining. (3) All the new people I have gotten to know in the community, especially our younger members, I enjoy the hugs.
As I say almost every week when someone asks, “How is it going”? My answer, the roof is still on the building.
- What are you doing for Shabbat? - Thu, Feb 15, 2024
- MESH Report January 23, 2024 - Thu, Jan 25, 2024
- MESH Report October 24 2023 - Thu, Oct 26, 2023
יישר כח! Yashar Koach to Fern and all Board members for your achievements!
Quite impressive and a lot to learn from.
Our best wishes to all Shamrei Emunah congregants and the new Board members!
Hag Shavuot Sameach
and Shabat Shalom
es