BY PRESIDENT, KEVIN CROSS
Shalom, Congregants! As we step into the month of Elul, the last month on the Hebrew calendar, Kol Ami is finalizing preparations for the upcoming High Holidays. Elul provides an opportunity for individuals to engage in introspection, reflection on one’s actions and behaviors, and evaluation of one’s spiritual state. It is a period of self-assessment in preparation for the upcoming High Holidays. Kol Ami, too, has been reflecting on the past year and looking to the future.
In today's fast-paced world, our synagogue finds itself at a crossroads, seeking ways to strengthen our community in a meaningful and lasting manner. The concept of "Relational Judaism" offers a powerful response to this challenge, centering on the belief that the future of Jewish communal life lies in building deep, personal relationships. Rather than focusing exclusively on programs, events, or membership growth, Relational Judaism prioritizes relationships as the core of Jewish experience, aiming to create communities where individuals feel connected to one another, to their spiritual practice, and to the larger Jewish world. At its core, this philosophy emphasizes that the foundation of a vibrant synagogue is rooted in meaningful relationships—not just between congregants and clergy, but between members themselves.
In my Kol Nidre Appeal letter, I introduced our Kol Ami Listens campaign, which is designed to gather information about what energizes and excites you to connect with Kol Ami. This outreach is a great example of Relational Judaism, and we look forward to deepening our connections to one another and discover common interests, passions, and concerns. We believe that human connections and relationships are the foundation of a vibrant Jewish life. You will be hearing more about the importance of creating lasting, personal relationships within the Kol Ami community throughout the upcoming High Holidays.
B’Shalom,
Kevin Cross
Kol Ami President
