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   If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, what am I? If not now, when? Hillel (approx. 30 B.C.E.) Rationale for the Jewish Life Program In its 5,000 year history, Jewish culture has been marked by adaptation due to external pressures and internal changes. American Jewry is poised at another time of adaptation. The challenges include a global resurgence of anti-Semitism exacerbated by increasing violence in the Middle East accompanied by serious debate among American Jews over politics and ideology. Fissures exist between Jews who define themselves as religious or cultural. Many Jews are not connected to their heritage or history in a way that provides them with a sense of wholeness and meaning in their lives. While high intermarriage rates signal tremendous acceptance of Jewish culture by mainstream America, they result in diminishing numbers of individuals who identify themselves as Jewish and who retain Jewish practice and ritual in their homes. The Jewish community is also a tremendously diverse population, and, like all multi-cultural communities, it struggles with harnessing the strength inherent in such diversity. These challenges have limited the opportunity for new leaders to emerge who reflect the current needs of a new generation. Why, then, is it important to foster Jewish identity and practice? Being connected to a cultural history can provide a sense of purpose and connection for individuals. Judaism's rich heritage can offer a feeling of wholeness, an understanding that people are part of a dynamic culture that is intricately interwoven with the history of other people and of American democracy. Jewish texts can bolster one's faith and teach Jews and non-Jews about values. These historic and religious documents make all of us grapple with the question of who we are and how we should behave towards others. Like many faith traditions, Judaism can serve as a moral compass, directing us toward solving the problems faced in contemporary society. Its own history as a community in diaspora and its mandate to welcome the stranger compels the Jewish community to support the aspirations of recent immigrants. The mandate to heal the world (tikkum olam) requires Jews to be engaged in fighting injustice, racism, and poverty. The obligation to give to the poor (tzedakah) derives its meaning from the Hebrew for justice, requiring Jews to support all of those in need, Jewish and non-Jewish alike. The Jewish tradition of reinventing meaning from generation to generation (l'dor v'dor) compels us to support new leaders who seek to work in a spirit of harmony and cooperation. The organized American Jewish community does not yet adequately reflect the needs and desires of large segments of the community. Younger Jews seek opportunities to express their personal relationship with Jewish culture and practice. These challenges from the margins are not easy to accommodate. Yet as historian Jonathan Sarna notes, "The greatest threat is not from those who want to change the policies of our communal organizations but the greater numbers of those who don't care." Larger numbers have not yet found their connection to their culture and religion. Those who struggle with their identity are part of the Jewish legacy. Our ancestors called themselves "Israel," from one who wrestles with God. If Judaism is to remain relevant, its leaders must be willing to grapple with the grapplers. What new narratives will motivate and compel the next generation? How do local organizations deal with crises such as the emergence of anti-Semitism on campuses while capitalizing on the opportunities inherent in tremendous diversity? What strengths can the Jewish community bring to interfaith efforts? What can we learn from such endeavors? Through their financial support and personal involvement, Walter and Elise Haas were leaders in the Jewish and secular communities, committed to the intersection of Jewish and American values. Our Jewish Life guidelines seek to build on this fundamental connection and to respond to the challenges faced by the Jewish community today. |
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