The full report (slide presentation) has been posted to the Shefa website (http://www.uscj.org/images/4tomorrow_uscj_summer_profile_june2010.pdf) and is also available from the USCJ website (http://www.uscj.org/4tomorrow.html).
It supports the Michael and David's shared perception that small and very small congregations represent the majority of USCJ communities (73%). The report does not examine congregations' proximity to nearest USCJ congregations, but it is an issue with which we are grappling. How can we, as an association of affiliated congregations do a better job of connecting with our more remote congregations (some are > 800 miles from their nearest neighbor; if you include our congregations outside the U.S. and Canada, several congregations are > 1,000 mi from their nearest neighbor and are separated by language as well)? Shefa is a great forum for floating ideas about how to do this. We are an excellent example of a global CJ community, but our email exchanges don't fully replace the need for direct, in-person interactions. As I've done on two other occasions, I'll compile ideas and forward them in compiled form to the USCJ leadership team.
The USCJ website link (http://www.uscj.org/4tomorrow.html) takes you to the Strategic Planning page. On that page there's a link to a Clean Paper exercise (http://www.uscj.org/Questions_for_Clean_8368.html). This is an opportunity for everyone to share their visions of the perfect USCJ/CJ extended community. Please take a few moments to share your Clean Paper thoughts. This is a unique opportunity for all stakeholders to participate in the strategic planning process directly.
B'Shalom,
Fred
Fred Passman
Chair, Leadership Development Committee, USCJ
609.716.0200
The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism promotes the role of the synagogue in Jewish life in order to motivate Conservative Jews to perform mitzvot encompassing ethical behavior, spirituality, Judaic learning and ritual observance. The mission of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism is to strengthen and serve our congregations and their members.
*****************************************
"Shefa: The Conservative Movement Dreaming from Within" is a forum for
passionate Conservative Jews to reflect together as they increase creative
energy within within the culture and environment of the Conservative
Movement in an effort to bring a renewed and revitalized perspective to
Conservative Jews.
We belong to the Conservative Movement and commit ourselves to working
towards its revitalization. Be a part of this community of visionary
thinkers and builders. To join the conversation, email
shefa-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Visit our home page at http://www.shefanetwork.org
*****************************************
