Congregational Covenant

TEMPLE BETH TORAH BOARD: COVENANT OF SERVICE 

Temple Beth Torah (TBT) is a congregation rooted in the values of kindness, connection, community and in the principles of Conservative Judaism.  Per our by-laws, our community is run by a Board of Directors who are responsible for governing TBT according to the moral and ethical traditions of the Jewish people. Serving on the Board of Directors is an act of sacred service. Through your dedication, our community is able to thrive as a Jewish home for us all.

TBT Board members commit to:

Integrity. Board decisions and leadership will be founded upon Jewish values such as fairness, mutual respect, sensitivity, trust and honesty.  Directors must avoid conflicts of interest as well as any actions or decisions which would lead to or intimate any form of personal financial gain. Board members will seek to preserve the dignity of the Temple, its members and those who serve it and work to create an inclusive, safe, welcoming and trusting environment for all TBT congregants and employees.

Strategy and Policy Decision Making. The Board is responsible for overseeing the direction of TBT, including strategies and policies for effective management and growth.  Directors will become familiar with the TBT By-Laws, policies and traditions. Board members will set aside personal agendas and focus on the greater needs of TBT and, following Board discussion and debate, will support all Board decisions once they are finalized.

Visible Leadership. Directors will be actively and visibly involved in Temple life. Directors are expected to faithfully attend Board meetings, to serve on committees, special projects and/or task forces as requested/needed.  Directors are asked to represent the Board at a minimum of 6 Friday and/or Saturday Shabbat services each year, helping to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere during Shabbat. Board members will actively participate in Temple services, programs and events.  Directors are encouraged to make contributions, within their personal/family capacity, to support fundraising activities of TBT. As leaders, Directors are role models of our relationship-based culture and are encouraged to cultivate and engage congregants in the life of the Temple.

Financial Stewardship. Board members share fiduciary responsibility for sustaining Temple Beth Torah, and for that purpose will become familiar with the financial structure, budget, revenue and expenses of the Temple. Directors will work to ensure the financial stability of TBT and provide accurate information to the congregation about the Temple’s finances.

Communication and Advocacy. TBT values transparency and open communication between the Board and the congregation.  Directors are a critical link in communicating the Board’s work and promoting TBT’s mission, vision, programs and accomplishments to members and to the wider community, both Jewish and secular. Board members will listen to and value congregants’ questions and needs, provide support and guidance, while ensuring that confidential matters are respected and that disagreements relate only to principles and priorities, not personalities.

Partnership with Staff. Board members will commit to understanding the organizational structure of TBT, to the roles and responsibilities of the Rabbi and professional staff.  Directors will work closely, respectfully and collaboratively, as appropriate, with the Rabbi and professional staff of TBT to generate positive outcomes benefittin