ChaiLites September 2013 | Page 6

Chai Guys Brotherhood Dave Kogan, President of the Temple Chai Guys Brotherhood and I were fortunate to have been selected to attend the Men of Reform Judaism’s 2013 Convention, which took place in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, during the week of June 27 30th. The main message Dave Kogan throughout the receives the MRJ various discussions 2013 Outstanding and learning Communications sessions was that Award the new year would be a year of transition for the MRJ. There is a renewed focus on building a stronger relationship with the URJ and to address the issues of membership, programming and the basic question of how to keep Jewish men engaged in Reform Congregational life. Many of our 20 - 30 year old males see no importance in Brotherhood membership. Although the learning sessions were wonderful and full of thought provoking ideas, the best part of the weekend was the networking Dave and I were able to do with the other men of temples nationwide. We were able to discuss programs and initiatives that worked and those that didn’t. What was the most significant lesson I took from this amazing experience? I now understand the importance of remaining with the MRJ and supporting it as an the organization. The MRJ has many resources it offers its members but that is not why our Brotherhoods should support it. The Brotherhood Board, as leaders of the men of Temple Chai, must engage the men of Temple Chai better so they see the importance of not only becoming members of Brotherhood, but also the importance of Temple membership and becoming actively engaged in services, programming and all the wonderful social and spiritual activities Temple Chai offers. Jim Elliot, CGB Secretary Join us for Family Worship at Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Tot Shabbat: Frid ay, October 4th 6:30 p.m. Tot Shabbat: Friday, November 1st 6:30 p.m. All Congregation Retreat Friday, December 6th- Sunday, December 8th 6