Each week, a member of our combined congregation reads his or her original commentary on the Torah portion of the week. You, too, can have the honor of writing a commentary (drash) on the Torah portion of the week. More
Thank you to Dr. Beth Jacobs for a very informative session last Saturday. You can view the recording here.
The Joint Executive Committee (JEC) includes members of the Executive Committees of the Board of Directors of both Temple Emanu-El and Congregation Or Chadash. JEC has begun to meet at least weekly to discuss issues relevant to fulfilling the mandate of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) approved by both congregations February 9, 2020, in order to move forward together to become a new congregation.
The meetings from the past two weeks include updates on the following issues:
Governance: Bylaws for the proposed new congregation are based on integrating the current bylaws of both congregations with the goal of streamlining as much as possible. Many of the policies currently included were eliminated so the incoming Board could have responsibility in determining its approach. The proposed Bylaws also address the transitional period. The JEC reviewed in detail the draft proposed by congregants Amelia Cramer and Audrey Brooks. A newer version will be submitted to each Board for their input and review this month.
Finance: Gary Kippur, Mark Ross, and Jeff Rein reviewed the presentation that will be given at the upcoming Town Hall. The JEC asked many questions to ensure the information on congregants’ minds will be readily available in the presentation.
Facilities: Steve Tofel reviewed the presentation that his committee will give at the upcoming Town Hall. Many of the issues regarding our facilities was discussed.
Vision and Naming: The proposed names for the new congregation will be sent to our congregants for input and voting.
Town Halls: The second Virtual Town Hall is planned for this Sunday, November 22nd, 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.; presentations from the Finance and Facilities committees will take place. Keep a look out for communication providing details on how to attend.
We want to know your thoughts, ideas and vision for our new congregation.
Please contact our presidents to advise Scott Arden and Elaine Jones of your interest by sending an email to: president@tetucson.org or president@octucson.org.
As always, thank you for your commitment and the passion you bring to our congregation!
Mona L Gibson, Temple Emanu-El, IPP
