Rabbi's Message

Pointing North

Temple Solel recently kicked off a strategic planning process. Solel is a strong, growing community, and it's important that we are thoughtful about our growth. There are a few things that I want to share about this process. First is to introduce the strategic planning leadership team with whom I'm blessed to partner: Chair, David Boninger; Lisa Banen, Robert Danoff, Malcolm Jozoff, Becky Lieberman, Roger Robinson, Judy Schaffert and Jackie Siamon. Second is to emphasize that any recommendations that flow from this working committee are presented to the Temple Solel Board of Trustees for approval. In turn, the congregation as a whole will be integrated into the process each step of the way.

As a lover of canoeing, hiking and the outdoors, for me carrying a compass is standard procedure. The compass needle is drawn to magnetic north and thus helps us know what direction we're facing. Temple Solel's compass, our needle indicating the earth's magnetic field, is our mission statement. As we move forward as a congregation, we should always be asking, "Is this north for us?" This is where strategic planning begins.

With that understanding and commitment, the first recommendation generated from strategic planning and approved by the Board in December is reflected in our new mission statement (reinforced with values) below. The strategy of any organization serves the articulated purpose of that organization. Sometimes we get so caught up in a "programming culture" that we lose sight of the forest through the trees. Everything we do should move us closer; help us realize our reason to exist.

Temple Solel's "north" is about inclusivity and involvement. Our north is about embracing faith and critical thinking - the hallmark of Reform Judaism. Our north is about the depth of relationships, not the number. Our north is about deeds - leaving the earth better than we found it. The magnetic force drawing our needle is generated from Shabbat and Torah - the intersection of heaven and earth!

Temple Solel's mission reflects a sacred journey. There's a lot riding on staying the course - for our generation and the generations to come.

What a blessing to be on the path together!

Rabbi John Linder