A practical guide for envisioning—and
transforming—your synagogue into a powerful new
congregation of welcoming, learning and healing.
“The new synagogue we envision is a
spiritual center for all those who set foot inside it. It is a kehillah kedoshah, a
sacred community, where relationships are paramount, where
worship is engaging, where everyone is learning, where repair
of the world is a moral imperative, where healing is offered,
where personal and institutional transformation are
embraced.The times are ripe for this spiritual
call.”
—from the Introduction
So often we want our congregations to be
more—more compelling, more member-focused, more spiritual
and yet more useful for our daily lives. Through reflection,
examples, tips and exercises—and incorporating the fruits
of Synagogue 2000 (now Synagogue 3000), a groundbreaking
decade-long program investigating the challenges facing modern
synagogues—this inspiring handbook both establishes a
sound foundation for why a deep hospitality is crucial for the
survival of today’s spiritual communities, and dives into
the practical hands-on how of turning your congregation into a
place of invitation and openness that includes: Prayer that is
engaging, uplifting and spiritually moving • Institutional
deepening that is possible because of an openness to change
• Study that engages adults and families, as well as
children • Good deeds—the work of social
justice—as a commitment of each and every member •
An ambience of welcome that creates a culture of warmth and
outreach • Healing that offers comfort and support at
times of illness and loss • ... and much more.
“Wonderful ... combines thoughtful
reflection on the nature of congregational worship and
welcoming with practical help on how to make your congregation
a more spiritual and deeply Jewish place. An invaluable tool
for all who believe that build-ing a vibrant, caring and
supportive community is the synagogue’s most pressing
task.”
—Rabbi
Eric H. Yoffie, president,
Union for Reform Judaism
“Ron Wolfson is right: synagogues
are the ‘retail outlets’ for Judaism. This is an
important book for anyone who believes the synagogue is the
critical entry point for the Jewish people.”
—Bernie
Marcus, co-founder, The Home
Depot
“Inspirational.... A must read for clergy people, congregants and policy makers who want to broaden and enrich their synagogues.”
—Jewish Book World
“Teaches how to transform outmoded,
misunderstood rites into vibrant, spirit-filled worship. Every
synagogue should own and read this book.”
—Rabbi
David Wolpe, Sinai Temple, Los
Angeles
“Ron Wolfson truly loves synagogues!
This book has something for every synagogue leader and for many
members as well—inspiration, challenges and very
practical ideas.”
—Isa
Aron, PhD, author of The Self-Renewing Congregation: Organizational
Strategies for Revitalizing Congregational Life
“Reveals the secrets of synagogue
transformation in a most inspiring and accessible way....
Empowers readers to make an immediate difference. [Will help
you] transform your synagogue culture from boring to
soaring.”
—Goldie
Milgram, author of Meaning and Mitzvah: Daily Practices for
Reclaiming Judaism through Prayer, God, Torah, Hebrew, Mitzvot
and Peoplehood
“A compelling call for a culture of
welcoming in American congregations.... Especially appropriate
and useful for lay and professional congregational
leaders.”
—Steven
M. Cohen, research professor
of Jewish social policy, Hebrew Union College–Jewish
Institute of Religion
“Ron Wolfson [has] faith that
synagogues can become centers of spiritual enrichment and
empowerment—more vibrant and healthy than ever before. I
am thrilled that this resource will be available to faith
communities seeking ... a vital transformative role in our
changing world.”
—Brian
McLaren, pastor, author of A New Kind of Christian
