What We Heard: Reflections from the Town Hall 

Thank you to everyone who participated in our recent town hall. We are deeply grateful for the thoughtful, heartfelt, and honest reflections shared. As we begin a new chapter in our community’s leadership journey, your voices will help guide the way forward.  

Questions and Hopes for the Future 

The Q&A session reflected both a strong desire to move forward and a call for thoughtful planning. Many are eager for clarity, inclusion, reassurance, and transparency in the rabbinic search process. 

Key Themes: 

A Clear Mission: Some asked whether we have a strong, updated mission statement to help guide the search and attract the right candidate. 

Timeliness & Urgency: There is concern about going too long without stable rabbinic leadership. The importance of having both an interim and a permanent rabbi was emphasized. 

Leadership Qualities: 

• A rabbi who is Zionist, emotionally intelligent, empathetic, and intellectually engaging. 

• Someone who delivers meaningful, well-researched sermons and embodies a joyful Jewish life. 

• A leader who is present—attending minyan, showing up for congregants, and invested in community life. 

Transparency & Process: Many called for a transparent, inclusive, and well-communicated search process. This includes revisiting the criteria from two years ago, learning from past experiences, and setting clearer expectations. 

Internal Reflection: A number of participants urged us to look inward. With four rabbis in 15 years, we must ask: what role has our congregational culture played? What changes are needed within ourselves to build a healthier, more sustainable relationship with our next rabbi? Also, just as we’re searching for the right rabbi, we must also reflect on what kind of community we are. What kind of environment are we offering in return? 

Looking Ahead 

This town hall was a powerful reminder of the love people have for our shul, the depth of their investment in its future, and the honesty with which they are willing to engage. 

We heard clearly: 

• The importance of strong, empathetic, and inspiring rabbinic leadership. 

• The need for clearer communication and mutual respect between clergy, staff, volunteers, congregants, and the Board. 

• A desire for healing, learning, and growth. 

We are committed to carrying these insights forward into the next steps of our rabbinic search process and beyond. 

Thank you for helping us continue to shape a community that is welcoming, vibrant, and grounded in shared values. 

Your search committee, 

Jon Mitzmacher (co-chair) 

Arryn Ketter Mills (co-chair) 

David Anzarouth 

Bonnie Bowering 

Marissa Figlarz 

Stuart McCarthy 

Kate McGregor 

Jack Shinder 

Jess Strauss 

Daniel Wolfish