Synagogues have become stale. Yup, I said it – and I’ve been a congregational rabbi for 20 years! Responsive readings, huge operating expenses, stifling formality and generally being stuck-in-the-mud has forced synagogues to remain stagnant while the world around them has changed dramatically. I became a rabbi because I wanted to share the beauty, grandeur, sanctity and joy of Judaism. But in-the-box synagogues, all too often, get in the way of celebrating the richness of Jewish life. It’s time to get out of the box. It’s time for a revolution to re-envision Jewish community.
Welcome to OHEL, a new kind of Jewish community. My name is Rabbi David Paskin and I founded OHEL to be a spiritual start-up modeled after Abraham and Sarah’s tent that was open on all four sides to welcome all who may pass by. We are passionate, progressive and pluralistic.
Following in the footsteps of Romemu, Ikar, Makom NY and the like, OHEL strives to reach out to those who have not yet found a spiritual home. We are dedicated to being a joyous Jewish community in which everyone is accepted, respected, and connected. Think Chabad…but progressive!
At OHEL, we seek to build a community that is more than a country club or professional organization. We don’t determine our success by the amount of dues collected or number of members signed up. We want each of our participants to feel connected and vital to how our community grows and thrives. That’s why I’m reaching out to you. I’m hoping that you will become my partner in “pitching our tent.”
After 20 years in the rabbinate, I have seen traditional synagogues struggle to remain relevant. I have watched far too many members of our tribe walk out of the Jewish world because they didn’t feel connected and valued. Like you, I’m looking for something more from my Judaism than High Holiday tickets, building funds and responsive readings. I’m looking to be part of something vibrant, energized and constantly growing.
You can learn all about my dreams for OHEL at www.comeintothetent.org. But I also want to hear your dreams.
- What does the Jewish community of the 21st century look like to you?
- How can we build a community that is warm and welcoming rather than stifling and rigid?
- How can we engage a generation of Jews who have felt left out?
Be a part of something truly meaningful and impactful. Help me build a new kind of Jewish community. #comeintothetent.
