It’s no secret that synagogues are failing in the United States. Many smaller synagogues are fighting for survival. Even mid-size and large congregations are feeling the pinch. The main issue – no matter the size of the congregation – is that fewer and fewer Jews are joining synagogues these days.
Many wave away the problem by saying that all religious institutions are shrinking. That younger generations have less interest in organized religion than their parents and grandparents. We are holding up our hands in frustration and sadness. Synagogues are lost and our leaders have largely run out of ideas. That is happening because we are failing to see the root cause of this growing trend.
The issue is that synagogues are operating as they did during the 20th Century. The sole emphasis is based on religious services and religious practices. While I do not discount the importance of either, being Jewish is more than attending services. It is more than adhering to observances and participating in rituals. Synagogues largely ignore the people side of Judaism and that is the reason why they are failing.
Younger generations indeed have less interest in organized religion. Fortunately for us, we are a people first and foremost. Yes, there is the religious side of Judaism, but you do not need to practice Judaism to be Jewish. A person can be a complete atheist, yet still be Jewish. Our synagogues simply do not cater to those who have little to no interest in religion. As younger generations see it, there is no reason to be a part of a synagogue unless you want to participate in religious services.
The word “synagogue” is derived from the ancient Greek term, “synagein” which is roughly translated to “a place to gather”. In the 20th Century, synagogues were places to gather for religious purposes. If younger generations lack interest in organized religion, then basing the purpose of a synagogue almost entirely on religious practices is not going to attract them. It’s time to think differently.
In the 21st Century synagogues need to become places to be Jewish – no matter if you are religious or not. Of course, synagogues will remain houses of worship and serve as a home for people to connect to God. But they also need to serve as local community centers where Jews can socialize and spend time together.
In my synagogue, we are increasing opportunities for people to connect. We are organizing fun activities of all sizes and people are showing up. There is new life in the building and laughter in the halls. Visitors to our synagogue see people enjoying themselves and we are starting to bring in new members. More importantly, resignations have slowed to a trickle because members are seeing value in being a part of the synagogue.
Are we on the right path to becoming a 21st Century synagogue?
I hope so.
David Schwam- Freelance Content Writer
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David Schwam is an American writer of all things Jewish. Much of his work focuses on preserving Jewish identity in the United States, including the revitalization of synagogues. David is also a historian who specializes in the Arab-Israeli conflict. He is currently working on his first book, “The Forgotten Legacy of Lyndon Johnson” which explores the evolution of military relations between the United States and Israel.
