One Family Iniative

Relational Judaism, implemented as One Family at Temple Shalom, is a way of thinking, a way of doing things. It is who we strive to be. At Temple Shalom, we are in the midst of a transformation, a cultural shift, from programmatical/transactional thinking, attitudes, and behavior to a culture based on the relationship of one member to another, of member to Temple, of member to Torah and God. Believing in the value and sacredness of relationships, many aspects of life at Temple Shalom continue to be impacted. From the first contact of a newcomer to Temple Shalom through the years of being part of our Temple family, the experience of belonging is much more than a financial commitment. Our ultimate goal is to build a community of engaged congregants, a religious home in which the connection between Temple and congregant is centered on our member’s needs and what is important to them. Creating the systems that promote relationships and an environment that is conducive to connecting with others are tools for furthering this transformation.

One Family, a three-year-old initiative at Temple Shalom, has engaged in many such systems. Some of the on-going ones are: • Name badges and cabinet now in our lobby • Additional new member engagement opportunities • Additional seasonal affiliate opportunities • Tribute Garden with seating (see detail below) • iTemple – a members only, member-driven computer platform connecting our members • Live and archived streaming video of services and events in our sanctuary • Affinity group for Empty Nesters (more affinity groups to come) • A “hearing loop” in our sanctuary to assist the participation of congregants with hearing impairment • Shabbat Senior Transport – providing rides to and from Erev Shabbat services for those seniors who don’t drive • Shalom Chaverim – a structure for providing greeters for Erev Shabbat services (to be followed later by providing a similar system for other events held at Temple Shalom; see detail below).

Our new Tribute Garden was sparked by interest shown at one of the first meetings of our One Family Team. Even though there was no budget with which to complete such a project, the committee was formed and planning began almost immediately. The generosity of several caring members made possible the renovation of the garden space and the development of a beautiful garden with trees, shrubs, lawn, and pavers. With the new foliage growing, the second phase has begun. The sale of pavers, benches, plantings, etc. is under way, making this project both a place for quiet contemplation and conversation as well as a fund raiser for the Temple

A new system that has just been introduced to the congregation in recent weeks is our Shalom Chaverim project. This group of members, supported by an on-line sign-up system, provides a warm welcome to all who come to our spiritual home for Erev Shabbat services. Shalom Chaverim members assist with name badges, seating, and special needs of those attending services. They keep a watchful eye at the Oneg Shabbat to ensure guests and newcomers are engaged with other attendees.

The support of the Temple Board, our clergy, and our staff have been central to the transformation taking place at Temple Shalom. This support is evidenced by the new mission statement, the new Temple logo, the new member pledge system (L’Shalom), and the presence of our Membership and Engagement Coordinator. All of these changes reflect the values of Relational Judaism, of our One Family. This support is greatly appreciated.