Scarsdale Synagogue Temples Tremont and Emanu-El

There was a wonderful atmosphere of friendship.  Everyone seemed genuinely interested in learning from each other and I took away several ideas that may find a place at Scarsdale Synagogue.

The theme for the lead presentation was the need to use objective, measurable data as the foundation for good decision making.  Sacha Litman, managing director and founder of Measuring Success, an organization specializing in data driven consulting for non-profits, said that his research has found that many synagogue decisions are driven by anecdotal experiences rather than measured information drawn from existing databases or well crafted survey questions.  He asked each of us to consider, "Does our data support and align with our vision?"

When planning for change, or evaluating existing programs, Sacha argued that we should turn to the voices of our members for direction.  He suggested we look at surveys, budget/financial modeling and our existing data to hear those voices.  Sacha pointed out that most synagogues do not fully utilize the information already available and stressed the importance of making better use of our own data.

At Scarsdale Synagogue we have already demonstrated our appreciation for the importance of listening to your voices.  With "Community Conversations," the member survey completed last year and the decision to integrate the religious school and Mazel Tots data into our synagogue database software, we are looking closely at "who we are" and "what we want."

After learning that we must look to objective measures for the true voice of the community, the agenda turned to big picture issues facing Jewish communities across America.  Rabbi Rick Jacobs talked about the challenges that will face the reform movement as he begins his tenure as President of the URJ.  He used the image of the smoke-filled room of baseball scouts from the movie "Moneyball" to make the point that organized religion, and the reform movement in particular, must change.  We must adapt to a Jewish world of changing priorities or face the threat of obsolescence.

Rabbi Larry Hoffman led a panel discussion about the changing of religion intended to answer the question, "Do Jews need synagogues?"  The CCAR (Central Conference of American Rabbis) was represented by Rabbi Stein from Shaaray Tefila in NYC who suggested that one of the biggest challenges facing congregations is the privatization of Jewish religion.  He recommended that we take a fresh look at the concept of "membership" and "dues" and begin to think in terms of "affiliation" and "support."  He suggested that we look at ways of expanding our community.

Livia Thompson, President of NATA, repeated Rabbi Stein's point.  Her synagogue, Central Synagogue in New York, uses the internet to expand the reach of its Shabbat services to those not able to attend in person and she added that they reach many who are not dues paying members.  As an amusing aside, the program is so successful at inclusion that she receives many emails and calls from the "internet members" with suggestions or complaints.

As the talk turned to outreach, one idea that occurred to me is...perhaps we should consider using name tags in addition to tickets for the High Holy Days this year.  It would serve the dual purpose of increasing "community" and would be a terrific advantage for our new Rabbi when he meets many of us for the first time.

Thinking...talking...sharing...learning.  During a busy workday I don't often have the luxury to think.  The conference fed my appetite for looking at big questions and thinking through approaches and ideas for fresh answers.  I would love to hear what you think.

Gary