Membership in the Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah requires commitment to building a participative inclusive Jewish community.
As a participative community, we depend upon shared leadership among a broad range of members and the active participation of all members in community life. Because participation extends beyond formal group activities, we make a commitment to support each other in our efforts to integrate Jewish principles and practice into our daily lives.
One of the core tenets of Reconstructionism is that 'the past has a vote, not a veto.'
When disagreements or the need to make major decisions arise within our community, we resolve them using the Reconstructionist process model, which consists of studying the issues, sharing information openly, and soliciting broad community input.
In recognition of the diversity in both our members' backgrounds and in their comfort with various Jewish practices and beliefs, we commit ourselves to inclusion and respect. Our services are pluralist and egalitarian. All events are accessible to the disabled. We welcome non-traditional households, converts, and families with non-Jewish members. It is our goal that all participants and non-Jewish family members can be comfortable among us and have the opportunity to participate meaningfully in community life. While not imposing on the prerogatives of parents, we consider our Havurah's children a shared responsibility. Finally, we each agree to provide funds within our means so that economic hardship will not hinder participation.
Participation
We believe our Havurah is a shared responsibility, and that our efforts to meet that responsibility enrich our community. Our goal is to spread responsibility broadly across the group, even when we hire professionals to assist the Havurah. All are expected to participate in some meaningful way.
The range of possible participation is broad. One might commit significant energy to serving on the Board of Directors, leading workshops or service, or planning a special event such as High Holiday services, Seder, or study group. At the other end of the spectrum are smaller commitments such as setting up or cleaning up after an event, helping to put together a mailing, or working on a committee. All are important, and all are welcome.
Our intent is to channel members' skills and interests and to give members an enriching and meaningful experience. The Board and other experienced members are available to assist members in determining how their skills and interests would best fit the Havurah's goals and to insure their success. The Havurah believes it is important that neither its governance, nor its routine tasks, be the prerogative of members who are expert in and/or observant of traditional religious practice.
Tikkun Olam (Repairing the World)
In keeping with Jewish teaching, we assume a fundamental responsibility to practice tikkun olam. In the context of the Havurah, tikkun olam includes social action, tzedaka (charity), and caring for the health of the planet. Tikkun olam also requires an appreciation for pluralism. Within our community we tolerate others even when in disagreement. Within klal yisrael (the Jewish community) this commitment involves respecting a wide range of Jewish practices and beliefs. Outside the Jewish community, tikkun olam requires that we reject chauvinism and bigotry.
Education
We actively educate ourselves and our children, and support and encourage others in developing Jewish skills and knowledge.
Integrity and Innovation Within the Tradition
One of the core tenets of Reconstructionism is that "the past has a vote, not a veto." We accept the responsibility and privilege of a creative dialog with the beliefs and practices that we have inherited. We strive to balance a respect for traditional Jewish teachings with the responsibility to interpret them in the light of our contemporary values.
Financial Support
All members of the Havurah are expected to help meet our financial needs, but the degree of contribution is voluntary and based on one's means.
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