Mission Statement

“Upon three things the world exists: learning, prayer and good deeds.” (Avot 1:2)

Congregation M’kor Shalom (Source of Peace) is a “Family of Families,” embracing the varied needs and rich diversity of our congregants, our community and the Jewish people. We strive to be a warm and loving home, built on the traditional foundation of the synagogue as a “Beit Tefillah” (House of Prayer), a “Beit Midrash” (House of Study) and a “Beit Knesset” (House of Gathering). We seek to create an inviting and inclusive atmosphere that promotes spiritual fulfillment for our congregants and supports their search for God. Our emphasis on communal life is reflected in the strong partnership among our clergy, lay leaders and congregants, active volunteerism and informed democratic decision-making, guided by our Jewish values. We uphold the principles and ideals of the Reform movement and are a member of the Union for Reform Judaism.

BEIT TEFILLAH (House of Prayer)

“And let them make Me a sanctuary that I may dwell among them.” (Exodus 25:8)

We affirm the central importance of communal worship and are committed to provide a worship experience that honors tradition and embraces innovation. We engage in lively observance of Shabbat and the Festivals that encourages people of every generation to celebrate the cycle of seasons and Jewish time. Our ritual is both rooted in ancient callings and infused with modern melodies and egalitarian readings. Our liturgy speaks to the mind and the heart through prayer, music, discussion and reflection.

BEIT MIDRASH (House of Study)

“And these words which I command you on this day shall be upon your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children…when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up…” (Deuteronomy 6:5-9)

We are committed to the life-long study of Torah, and engage our youngest through our senior members. We are deeply committed to our children from preschool through Post-Confirmation and encourage parents to take an active part in family education. We challenge not only the youth of our congregation, but all members of every age to strengthen their knowledge of Judaism and the ways in which our Jewish values shape our daily lives.

BEIT KNESSET (House of Gathering)

“Do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)

We use the collective strength of our community to translate the religious teachings of chesed (compassion) and tzedek (justice) into action. We connect with one another by performing mitzvot that enhance the physical, spiritual and social lives of members of our congregation, our local community, the nation and the world. Our unwavering support of the State of Israel and the Jewish people brings us together and links us in a common bond. We are especially inspired by our ancient prophets’ demand for justice and righteous living as the highest expression of our religious lives.

Adopted by Congregation M’kor Shalom Board of Trustees, December 2005