Borehamwood shul report urges more access and inclusion post-Covid

A synagogue’s members want to restore the togetherness of their shul after the disruption of lockdown.

A team at Borehamwood and Elstree United Synagogue have published a report “Reimagining Shul”, to rebuild its cohesion.

They have spent months researching what worked best within the United Synagogue, Anglo Jewry, and the world, from Jewish and non-Jewish faith groups.

They hope to recreate the pre-Covid vibrancy and the feelings of belonging among members.

Key findings from the report included

• Rabbis should be given more time to engage with members in meaningful conversations
• there is work to do to improve inclusion and access for many sections of the community
• better ways need to be found to incorporate moments of Jewish insight

Rabbi Alex Chapper said: “I am very pleased that we took the time to re-imagine community life in a post-pandemic world.  The scope of this report will ensure that we seize this once-in-a-generation opportunity to make BES into the best community possible.”

United Synagogue director of communities Jo Grose said: “Much research and consultation has gone into this thoughtful and forward-thinking report, which has already been shared with lay and Rabbinic teams in other United Synagogue communities. We look forward to seeing how BES members rise to the challenge presented in order to reimagine their shul.”

Full report here: https://borehamwoodshul.org/reimaginingshul