Reflections from the President

Steve Rabb

The days are getting longer, and we are starting a new year. It is a time of reflection and anticipation. Of renewal. Of hope. Of looking forward.

Beth El has just completed eight focus groups as part of our search for a new cantor. A substantial number of congregants, representing many different constituencies, participated. I want to express my appreciation to the search committee and to the individuals who took time to share their thoughts with us. Your input is vital to our success.

The results will be analyzed in depth in January. We heard many recurring themes as well as a few opposing desires. The adage about bringing two Jews together and getting three opinions held true. This was expected and is as it should be. Beth El is a melting pot. It is home, and I believe a welcoming home, to many points of view. Each is important. During the next 18 months, we will consider all that we heard as we strive to serve Beth El’s best interests.

What was most significant to me was the civil way everyone expressed their viewpoints and listened to others. To me civil discourse is a core value. It is grounded in Jewish tradition. The debates of Shammai and Hillel are classic examples we can learn from.

We live in interesting times. Polarization has made some communication difficult. It needn’t be so. Vigorous debate is the foundation of sound organizations and relationships.

I recently had lunch with a gentleman whom I respect on the one hand and often disagree with on the other hand. What was significant about the lunch was the civil tone and our mutual willingness to hear each other’s ideas. We agreed on some issues. We agreed to disagree on others. It meant we could leave the lunch as friends.

Beth El is like that. We welcome multiple points of view. We are blessed with a strong, thoughtful and diverse Board of Trustees and Clergy. Our membership is large and multifaceted. I am thankful for that. It is through honest and civil discourse that we can make the wisest decisions.

As we enter a new year, let’s agree to listen better, to find common ground where we can and to show respect for each other’s perspectives.