Our Vision of Community
“Whatever is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow man. This is the entire Torah, the rest is commentary. ” – Hillel
Ethical behavior is the underpinning of Jewish life and, as Jews have for generations, we take our cues for ethical behavior from the Torah. It is these middot (Jewish values) that form the cornerstone of how we build our sacred community, with all of the richness that comes from our diverse backgrounds and viewpoints. Chief among these are kedushah (holiness), tzedakah (righteous action), and g’milut chasadim (acts of lovingkindness).
The Beth El Board has chosen the following values as those that are most important to the congregation and that can best unite us.
We believe in:
- Creating a safe and welcoming environment for all.
- Treating everyone involved in synagogue life with kavod(respect).
- Teaching that all are created b’tzelem Elohim(in the image of God).
- Valuing different perspectives – our goal is unity, not uniformity.
- Ensuring that interpersonal boundaries are respected.
- Supporting each other and Beth El to foster our spiritual and personal growth.
By living these values, each of us can aspire to be our best selves while contributing to tikkun olam (repair of the world).
“Do what is right and good in the sight of the Eternal,” Deuteronomy 6:18