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The United Synagogue Strategic Review: Building vibrant, engaged communities at the forefront of British Jewry

Author(s): Myer, Marc

Date: 2015

Topics: Orthodox Judaism, Strategic Planning, United Synagogue, Jewish Community, Synagogues, Umbrella Bodies, Main Topic: Identity and Community

Abstract: It is no exaggeration to say that the United Synagogue is one of the Jewish community’s most important institutions. I firmly believe the United Synagogue is essential to the future of the UK Jewish community and I was privileged that the President and Trustees asked me to help them conduct a strategic review of this august institution. The decision to initiate a strategic review comes ten years on from the publication of Rabbi Saul Zneimer’s report, “Transformation & Action”, and almost 20 years after Sir Stanley Kalms conducted his review. It recognised that whilst the United Synagogue is, now, financially stable (a very different situation to the one Sir Stanley looked at), it must look ahead to address the challenges it faces and to meet the needs and challenges of future generations. The US must clearly articulate its vision and align itsstrategy with corresponding delivery mechanisms. In doing so, The US must clearly communicate what it stands for and what it provides to members. This review also comes at an opportune moment, following Chief Rabbi Mirvis’ installation into office and looking ahead to 2020, the 150th anniversary of the Act of Parliament that created the United Synagogue. The report that follows summarises and elucidates the conclusions of over nine months’ work by a large team of talented volunteers and professionals. Its principal finding is that the United Synagogue needs to redefine its synagogues as vibrant homes of community that enrich our members’ lives. No longer can shuls solely be houses of prayer. This is not a new idea but it has taken on a new importance as we seek to meet the spectre of disaffiliation that haunts our community.