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Vision & Activity
Beth Shalom originated from a group of primarily American Jewish
families in search of lively, pluralistic Jewish life in Munich in
the late 1980s. In the early 1990s the group (Chavura) began
organizing religious education classes for their children in the
progressive (reform or liberal) tradition, holding regular Shabbat
services was their next step.
Many obstacles stood in their way:
funds and rooms were both lacking. Today Beth Shalom continues to
fund its activities primarily through membership dues and generous
donations made by individuals. A large number of the functions of
the community ore fulfilled on a volunteer basis by members.
The enthusiasm and the personal commitment of our members have
slowly turned our dreams into reality. In March 1995 the community
was founded and incorporated as a not-for-profit association. In the
year 2003 we took the next big step of renting our own rooms.
With the fulltime employment of its own Rabbi, Beth Shalom takes the
next decisive step in its development. While employing a fulltime
Rabbi is a serious financial challenge for the community, it is also
a realistic one. Up until this point Beth Shalom has met all of the
goals it set out to achieve.
For the future it is important for Beth Shalom to maintain its
religious autonomy as it explores the challenges that lie ahead. Our
long-term vision is to rebuild a Liberal Synagogue in Munich, one
which calls upon the Liberal tradition of German Jewry before the
war as it inspires a modern Jewish Liberal tradition for our future. |
25-07-02 |
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