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Emanu El Sacred Belonging Statement

At Congregation Emanu El, we strive to build a culture of Sacred Belonging.

Sacred Belonging is the term we use to describe the unique sense of connection that can be found in Jewish community when every individual feels seen, included, and valued and knows that they are created b’tzelem Elohim (in the image of God).

Seen

Our Jewish tradition is enriched by the stories of our lives. The uniqueness of each person adds joy and texture to our community. We celebrate our commonalities while also appreciating that we each bring our own distinct stories and spiritual needs. We embrace the spark of the Divine in people of all ages, abilities, races, ethnic backgrounds, gender identities and expressions, and sexual orientations.

Included

It is important to us that everyone who enters the physical and virtual doors of our congregation can fully participate in synagogue life. We strive to offer accessible experiences by speaking to multiple learning styles and engaging families of all configurations. We joyfully invite the full participation of Jews of all backgrounds as well as interfaith and multi-heritage families. We work to ensure that our synagogue’s leadership reflects the diversity of our congregation. If you are seeking a meaningful connection to Jewish life, tradition, and community, we want you to feel that you belong here.

Valued

Every person at Emanu El matters. Our community is made up of people with a rich diversity of experiences, religious beliefs, ritual practices, and political viewpoints. We welcome discussion and dialogue about the big ideas of our time, the challenges we face, and our role in tikkun olam (repairing the world). At Emanu El, we believe that our diversity is an opportunity for inspired creativity.