The Reform Congregation and Future Needs

Introduction

As an African-American Christian who has found a spiritual home in a Reform synagogue, I was honored to join a visioning committee tasked with exploring the future needs of our congregation. At first, I wondered what I could contribute, given my limited Jewish background (primarily Reform and a taste of Conservative). However, I soon realized that my perspective—rooted in my experience as both an outsider and an ally—offered valuable insights into how congregations can remain relevant and inclusive in a rapidly changing world.

Faith communities today are facing significant challenges. Secularism, assimilation, and rising antisemitism all threaten Jewish engagement. Meanwhile, evolving social norms, shifting demographics, and technological advancements are redefining how people connect to spiritual life. If congregations hope to thrive in the future, they must proactively adapt to these changes while remaining grounded in Jewish tradition.

Based on my observations and the work of our committee, I have identified four key areas that will be critical for the future of Reform congregations:

1. Spiritual Formation – Meeting the evolving spiritual needs of individuals, regardless of their level of observance.
2. Inclusivity & Diversity – Creating genuinely welcoming spaces that reflect the diversity of the Jewish people.
3. Youth & Future Generations – Strengthening young people’s connection to Judaism in ways that feel relevant to them.
4. Remote Engagement – Embracing digital and hybrid models to meet people where they are.

Each of these areas is essential in ensuring that Jewish congregations remain vibrant, inclusive, and meaningful for generations to come.

Four Key Categories for the Future

1) Spiritual Formation: Nurturing the Soul in a Changing World

People may not always identify as religious, but many still seek spiritual meaning and growth. Synagogues must expand their vision of spiritual formation to accommodate a diverse range of seekers, including:

• Those who connect to Judaism culturally rather than religiously.
• Interfaith families exploring how Judaism fits into their lives.
• Secular Jews who may not attend services regularly but still desire a sense of belonging and tradition.

By offering multiple pathways to Jewish engagement—such as meditation, text study, community service, and alternative prayer gatherings—congregations can become hubs of spiritual exploration that meet people where they are.

2) Inclusivity & Diversity: Expanding the Definition of “Jewish Community”

Diversity and inclusion are deeply embedded in Jewish teachings, yet many congregations struggle to fully embrace the reality of a multicultural Jewish world. Historically, Jewish communities in the United States have remained predominantly white and Ashkenazi, even as Jewish demographics have become more diverse.

To build genuinely inclusive congregations, we must:

• Recognize the experiences of Jews of color, LGBTQ+ Jews, interfaith families, and converts.
• Ensure that leadership and programming reflect the full spectrum of Jewish identities.
• Move beyond performative allyship (e.g., inviting a Black Christian minister for MLK Day) and instead center the voices of Jews of color and other marginalized Jewish groups.

Inclusion is not just about welcoming people—it’s about ensuring that everyone feels a true sense of belonging in the Jewish community.

3) Youth & Future Generations: Securing the Jewish Future

I was deeply troubled when I heard parents say that their children didn’t want to have a Bar/Bat Mitzvah because they viewed the synagogue as a place for old people. This decline in youth engagement is a warning sign that synagogues must rethink how they connect with younger generations.

To help Jewish youth see the synagogue as their spiritual home, we must:

• Offer youth-led services and programs that allow them to shape their own Jewish experiences.
• Create opportunities for Jewish social activism to help them connect Judaism with their broader values.
• Rethink Jewish education by incorporating real-world experiences, travel opportunities, and interactive learning.
• Teach Jewish youth about Israel and the Middle East in an “objective” manner and to hear dual narratives virtually or in person. As well as Jewish Palestine groups working for peace.
• Provide service projects in another city or country, with the theme of, “What does it mean to be Jewish?”

If Jewish institutions fail to engage young people meaningfully, the next generation may drift away from Jewish life. The synagogue must be a resource, a home, and a place of inspiration for Jewish youth.

4) Remote Engagement: The Synagogue Beyond Four Walls

The role of sacred space has always evolved—from the altar to the Tabernacle to the Temple to the synagogue. Today, digital spaces must also be considered sacred. The pandemic accelerated the shift to virtual worship, online learning, and hybrid community models, proving that synagogues can thrive beyond their physical locations.

Congregations must now embrace a dual model of in-person and remote engagement, including:

• Live-streamed services and interactive online discussions.
• Hybrid classes and study groups to include remote members.
• Digital pastoral care for those unable to attend in person.

By expanding what “community” means, congregations can reach those who might otherwise be disconnected from Jewish life.

Conclusion: A Vision for the Future

The future of Reform congregations depends on their willingness to adapt while staying rooted in Jewish tradition. The key areas of spiritual formation, inclusivity, youth engagement, and remote accessibility are not just challenges—they are opportunities to redefine what it means to be a thriving Jewish community.

The theme of our work was “All Paths Lead to Shalom”—a reminder that the Jewish community must provide multiple entry points for people seeking connection. Whether through traditional prayer, social activism, digital engagement, or cultural exploration, there is no single way to “be Jewish.”

By embracing this inclusive, forward-thinking approach, Reform congregations can not only survive but flourish—offering a spiritual home to all who seek it, now and for generations to come.