By Rabbi Asher Knight, Temple Beth El

We Jews love to say“ we.” Not just because it binds us to each other, but because it binds us to responsibility. We stood at Sinai. We wandered the wilderness. We sinned. We built. We dreamed. We returned. Ours is not a tradition of solo journeys. Even our ancestors, standing at the edge of liberation, found themselves stumbling— not because they were weak, but because they were no longer walking Pharaoh’ s path. They were now walking their own path. And freedom, unanchored by

purpose, can feel like being lost in the woods.

This is the soul work of leadership— not just to guide others, but to walk with them through the wilderness between what was and what might yet be.

It’ s tempting to imagine that leadership comes from titles or formal roles. But we know better. At Temple Beth El— and across the sacred shared spaces of Shalom Park— we are shaped by a deeper truth: that lay leadership is an act of spiritual courage. It’ s the practice of showing up— again and again— with clarity, compassion, humility, and conviction. It’ s saying“ we,” when it would be easier to say“ they.” It’ s helping a community discern its direction, even when the road ahead is unclear.

For three years, Alan Kronovet’ s presidency at Temple Beth El has been a model of that sacred presence. Through seasons of challenge and possibility, he has led with vision, steadiness, deep listening, and enduring commitment. He has helped us stay rooted in who we are, while keeping us moving toward what we must become. Alan has reminded

us that leadership is not just about decisions— it’ s about holding the soul of a community with grace, care, and hope.

And now, as we prepare to welcome A-J Secrist as our next president, we don’ t simply pass the torch— we renew our covenant. A-J brings insight, strength, and a passionate commitment to Jewish life. She understands that leadership is about service, not spotlight. It is about cultivating trust, embracing responsibility, and helping a community thrive, not just for today, but for the generations to come.

Our mission at Temple Beth El is clear: to cultivate connected, proud, meaningful Jewish living that inspires change in our world. Our vision is bold: a Jewish community of deep roots, sacred responsibility, and daring hope. That mission and vision only become reality through partnership between clergy, professional staff, and lay leaders who bring their whole selves to the work of building Jewish life.

And we don’ t build alone. Temple Beth El’ s annual meeting on June 3 is one of many across our community this season, as

Jewish organizations throughout Shalom Park mark transitions in leadership and honor those who help guide our shared future. Across Shalom Park and throughout the greater Charlotte Jewish community, we are lifted by extraordinary leaders— those who lead congregations, agencies, schools, and service organizations. Those who step forward with their wisdom, time, and heart. Our community is strong not because of any one institution, but because of the shared belief that Jewish leadership is sacred work— and that it belongs to all of us. As a rabbi— and as part of a larger Jewish ecosystem— I am profoundly thankful for the leaders who give their time, vision, and presence to sustain, guide, and grow our community; their work strengthens not only Temple Beth El, but the entire fabric of Jewish life across Charlotte. We are deeply grateful for all they do to strengthen and sustain our community.

Today, the need for leadership is greater than ever. In a world that often pulls us toward isolation or cynicism, Jewish leadership calls us back to connection

and purpose. It asks us to be learners and builders, listeners and doers, visionaries and caretakers. And it invites each of us to step forward— not because we have all the answers, but because we are willing to walk the path together.

If you’ ve ever wondered whether you could lead, the answer is: yes. Step in. Speak up. Bring your questions, your courage, your voice. The future of Jewish life is not something we watch unfold. It’ s something we create.

May we honor those who have led.

May we bless those who now lead.

And may we each take our place on the journey, not just as participants, but as stewards of something greater than ourselves.

Because the journey is not theirs alone, it is ours.

And we walk it together.