Civil rights Quote by Kerry M. Olitzky
““I argue that synagogue leaders have it backwards. Engaging individuals is what will lead them to affiliate with a synagogue as the institution that serves them, that meets their needs and those of their family. If synagogues continue to focus on the needs of the institution rather than on the needs of the individual, they will lose their dues-paying members and eventually become financially unviable. Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel suggested to folks in the 1960s that they pray with their feet—and those prayers took them to places like the civil rights marches in Selma, Alabama. As a result of the actions of Rabbi Heschel and the influence of American political culture, American Jews—like most Americans—have been taught to vote with””
About This Quote
Source Article: Synagogue engagement strategies, date unknown
Synagogue leaders should prioritize individual needs to retain members, rather than focusing solely on institutional goals.
In simple terms: Focus on people, not just the institution.
Key Takeaway
Center programs around members' lives.
Themes
community
religion
membership
leadership
Mood
empathetic
reflective
Type
motivational
strategic
When to use this quote
- faith education
- family outreach
- social events
- community service
Key Concepts
individual-centric design
mission alignment
financial sustainability
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal needs are unmet in your community?
- How can institutions measure individual satisfaction?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on institution can alienate members and reduce revenue.
