Shomrei Emunah has become the first synagogue in the area to adopt a voluntary contribution model in lieu of set dues.  Members voted and adopted the “Sustaining Share Financial Commitment” model by an overwhelming majority at Shomrei’s annual meeting May 27.  With over 90 members in attendance, it was a lively and enthusiastic discussion and vote.  After passage a spontaneous round of applause broke out.

According to Nick Levitin, president, the motivation for the change is that “Shomrei is seeking to align its membership model with its core value of being open and welcoming to any member – regardless of financial wherewithal – who wants to participate in a Jewish life.” Under the new system, the synagogue will not charge dues or a building fund assessment and will no longer conduct its annual Kol Nidre appeal. “Instead,” says Levitin, “we are asking our members to make a commitment to Shomrei based on each individual’s ability to pay.” He added, “This provides an opportunity for those who are unaffiliated or put off by high synagogue membership fees to find a level that is comfortable for them and to grow in their commitment to the community.”

• Author
• Recent Posts

John Lasiter

John has been at Shomrei Emunah since 2006. He's the designer and co-editor of ShomreiWeek (weekly newsletter) and Kol Emunah Blog. He's a graphic/web designer and a theater lighting designer. When he's not designing graphics and posters for Shomrei he's sometimes in some far-flung corner of the country working on musicals and plays. He lives in Montclair with his wife Adrienne and children, Sam and Elliot.

Latest posts by John Lasiter (see all)

• Latkes of Fun! - Thu, Dec 22, 2022
• Goodbye “Sharing Shabbat” - Thu, Jun 17, 2021
• Shomrei Latke Crew (and John’s recipe) - Thu, Dec 13, 2018