Strengthening community through relational Judaism

By Rabbi Ariel Boxman, Director of Lifelong Learning

A few years ago, I read a book by Dr. Ron Wolfson, titled, “Relational Judaism: Using the Power of Relationships to Transform the Jewish Community,” and I still can’t seem to get it out of my head. In the book, Wolfson presents a new philosophy of Jewish engagement based on extensive field research (including observations within megachurches) and experience in the Jewish community. Wolfson’s philosophy identifies nine levels of relationship that strengthen individual Jewish identity and commitment to the Jewish world. These range from “bein adam l’atzmo” (a relationship with oneself) to “bein adam l’makom” (a relationship with God).

In accessing these nine levels of relationship, Wolfson argues that Jewish organizations can begin to form meaningful relationships with those in their Jewish community, becoming visionary and engaging places of worship and learning.

Snacks served at our first park play date

Ever since reading this book and meeting Dr. Wolfson last spring, I have been committed to not only speaking about relational Judaism but doing relational Judaism. Within the school walls, we do a wonderful job fostering meaningful relationships among students and staff members. Relational Judaism makes its way into every activity and lesson we do as we teach children the value of friendship, kindness and inclusiveness. However, this year, my goal has been to expand our emphasis on relationship building to parents and families of Temple Shalom Preschool.

In an effort to strengthen the bonds among our school parents, we have implemented a few new programs, including a monthly Moms Night Out and weekend family play dates (offsite). We have also restarted monthly POTS (Parents of Temple Shalom) committee meetings in order to engage parents in the planning of school events and fundraisers.

Temple Shalom Preschool kids enjoying a play date at Baker Park

In the month of September, we kicked off our Shabbat ShaPLAY series, in which we invite all families to join us at Sea Gate Park on Shabbat morning for singing, dancing and delicious Shabbat treats. Finally, this month, we will be inviting young Jewish families to participate in our Shalom Yeladim program on Sunday mornings at Temple Shalom, joining us as we learn about the Jewish holidays, sing with Miss Jane and socialize.

As we engage with one another and increase relationships among preschool families, our Jewish community will be strengthened.

From all of us at Temple Shalom Preschool, we wish you a Shana Tova! May it be a year of growth, health and peace!