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TEMPLE BETH ISRAEL

MISSION STATEMENT / FUNDAMENTAL COMMITMENTS / VISION STATEMENT

March 2002

MISSION STATEMENT

Temple Beth Israel is an Australian Progressive Jewish Congregation that provides a spiritual community through a contemporary approach to Jewish practice and a commitment to Jewish Tradition, Culture and Education.

FUNDAMENTAL VALUES

The fundamental commitments of the Temple Beth Israel community are:

  • Judaism as a God centred way of life, based on Torah and the inspirations for living that it provides.
  • Practice of Jewish traditions that connect us with Am Yisrael and our heritage, and enrich our lives in the modern world.
  • Progressive Judaism, which entails a commitment to social action (tikkun olam), religious pluralism, egalitarianism and an acceptance of diversity in ethnicity and lifestyle.
  • Zionism and the ideals of religious pluralism in the State of Israel.
  • Programs for Progressive Jewish Education and study for adults and youth.
  • Jewish continuity and growth.
  • Good governance and fiscal responsibility.
  • Nurturing a community in which all the members are involved in responding to the needs of one another in all aspects of community life.
  • Commitment to the mutuality of Australian Society and Progressive Judaism in enhancing the well-being of the broader community.

VISION

Our vision is to:

  • Maintain a congregation that is sensitive to the diverse needs of our Progressive Jewish community.
  • Provide services of worship embracing Progressive Jewish values and practice for those Jews who subscribe to these values and who choose to practice Judaism in this manner.
  • Provide facilities consistent with the current and future needs of the entire membership of Temple Beth Israel.
  • Institute programs and activities that foster an ongoing thriving community, welcoming and supporting Jews who are building commitment through all cycles of their lives.
  • Guide our community as it seeks to develop the spiritual, religious and communal expressions of Progressive Judaism.
  • Maximise participation in all forms of Progressive Jewish life.
  • Encourage and support Progressive Jewish education and study for adults and youth.
  • Promote opportunities to become involved in all aspects of community life.

This Statement should be read in conjunction with the Strategic Plan (1993) currently under review.