At the Interim Meeting on 28th February we heard from Rabbi Czitron on his vision for the shul. We also had a presentation from Miriam Baigel setting out the result of YAM’s internal review, proposals and vision for the next three years.
Dear Members,
At the Interim Meeting on 28th February we heard from Rabbi Czitron on his vision for the shul. We also had a presentation from Miriam Baigel setting out the result of YAM’s internal review, proposals and vision for the next three years.
The HOs said that they would take away the feedback from the meeting for further discussion with the YAM representatives. To that end there have been various meetings and discussions that have taken place since then to try and find a pathway to take Yeshurun forward in a positive and constructive way.
The YAM presentation includes several non-controversial proposals which would help us take the community forward. They include:
A vision “[t]o provide a thriving Modern Orthodox and Religious Zionist community in Edgware which is inclusive, caring and forward thinking -growing spiritually together with inspired leadership and engaged members.” Some might want to discuss the labels, but the broad thrust of the vision would probably be agreed by most members and reflects what many responded in 2024 when we surveyed the community as part of our search for a new Rabbi.
Significantly in the area of management of the shul there is a welcome proposal to have a single structure. Currently we have the HOs & Board of Management together with a separate YAM committee and this dual structure is at times cumbersome. So it is a very positive step that we will revert to having a single structure. We have been discussing that Board members should have clearly defined portfolios and similar sentiments are expressed in the presentation. Committees under the management structure such as events and welfare (including Yeshurun Cares) would cater to the whole community although might focus certain activities on certain age groups.
We support the suggestion that there should be a rolling six-month calendar of events. It will help the planning and also encourage all of us to diarise events well in advance.
The presentation included a subtle but important proposal to remove the current blurred age distinction between the two minyanim on Shabbat and Yom Tov mornings. The two minyanim would be open to all but have different start times and would get together for kiddush periodically.
There were some negative comments about YAM’s contribution to the shul. We live in challenging times where events not only in Israel and the Middle East but also here in London, require all of us to be extra vigilant. It is a comfort that many of the dedicated Duty Security Officers (DSOs) and volunteers who run security alongside the paid staff are members of YAM. Their contribution to this important aspect of keeping us safe is fully appreciated.
Those who have been at shul on a Shabbat or Yom Tov cannot have failed to notice the buzz from young children running around and going to the Yamlets Children Services. It is a wonderful feeling to have such a vibrant atmosphere in the building, and we thank the people who organise and run these services.
There have been other events run by members of YAM that have been open to the wider community such as the two Friday Night Cocktail Club evenings, the monthly Shiur Klali and on Shabbat afternoons, Lomedet for women.
At the meeting comment was made about finance. YAM does make a positive financial contribution to Yeshurun’s total income. Its members are paying the agreed rates for their ages.
It was made clear that several members felt that joint minyanim were a key feature of communal cohesion. To this end we are pleased to announce that there will be a joint service on Shabbat Hagadol, this coming Shabbat. The Shabbat before Pesach is an important date in any Shul’s calendar, traditionally a time when the Rav provides words of guidance and inspiration before the festival. We hope that all members will come and support this service as a stepping stone for further integration in other areas of Yeshurun life as well.
We are working with the YAM committee to establish a schedule for other joint minyanim during the year and other events so please watch this space!
We wish all the Kehilla a Chag Pesach Kasher Ve’Sameach . We also hope that people who are unable to get away for Pesach due to the situation in Israel will be able to have a meaningful Pesach with their families here whilst our thoughts and prayers are with our brothers and sisters in Israel at this difficult time.
Yours sincerely,
Michael, John, Ben and Avi
Honorary Officers
