In the past decade many intelligent people who care deeply about synagogues have written about them. So how is this book different from all other books? Many books take the overall mission of the synagogue as a given, and the recommendations around structure are really about incremental change. Tomorrow's Synagogue Today stimulates the reader to unleash the power of synagogues to exponentially influence people's Jewish lives. Herring offers creative scenarios to stretch the imagination about how more synagogues could become vibrant centers of Jewish life and how congregational leaders can begin to chart a new course toward achieving that goal. Key to his vision are the ways synagogues can collaborate with other synagogues and other Jewish institutions in the local Jewish community and around the globe, as well as with organizations outside of the Jewish community. Herring also explores structural change that is occurring in the rabbinate, as well as future roles rabbis may play and how rabbis might begin preparing for that future now. He shares insights from twelve rabbis from across the country about new models of synagogue mission, governance, and organization. He concludes with recommendations about the kinds of investments those who care about synagogues and the Jewish future need to make so that synagogues will remain a significant force in the Jewish community.

This one-volume guide to a healthy congregation combines the wisdom of a rabbi with the expertise of an organizational development consultant to demonstrate the power of positive relationships and show how to avoid some of the common traps that can lead to serious conflict. Using the life of the synagogue as its central illustration, this book gives vital lessons for congregations of any faith on how to be a healthy community of believers. Leaders and congregants alike are shown how to incorporate all their gifts for the creation and support of a healthy faith community. Synagogue life is considered through case studies--struggles over what to do with an endowment fund, a social action committee that no one joins, changing a worship service time, clergy transitions--which are examined for what they reveal about the strugglesof congregations and their leaders to create healthy institutions. Each chapter integrates organizational theory and faith values in the pursuit of a deeper understanding of synagogue lfie. For non-Jewish congregations, the book offers rich insights into Hebrew texts and culture and the common elements between synagogue and church life. This House We Build enables both clergy and members to learn more deeply about creating and sustaining communities of faith in the course of inevitable transitions and everyday challenges.

Beyond Survival challenges the current agenda, assumptions, mind-set, and sacred cows of the Jewish establishment, which has largely accepted as a given and become resigned to its communal decline. Instead, Beyond Survival offers an alternative vision for the Jewish future-a paradigm shift, one in which individuals can find an open and accepting community that joyously and creatively celebrates their sacred way of life. A future in which we can all grow and thrive. Beyond Survival begins by taking an in-depth look at the obstacles that currently prevent our growth as a people. This is the survival agenda that has served the Jewish community well in the past but now needs to be laid to rest. Change is never easy, but Rabbi Bookman, drawing from his decades of experience as a pulpit rabbi and innovator, shows the reader the path to surmount them. In each successive chapter, Beyond Survival looks at the opportunities that are in front of us-from active conversion; emerging Jewish communities around the globe; a new understanding of intermarriage; a realigned relationship of mutuality with a pluralistic Israel; a post-modern understanding of Jewish identity; reimagined synagogues and reinvigorated Jewish institutions; and a community that is truly an open door to all. In the afterword, Rabbi Bookman suggests how this can all take shape, positing that a thriving Jewish community can be actualized only when we all thrive. Against all the inertia, resignation, negativity and pessimism that pervades our world, Beyond Survival is a breath of fresh air, hope, and practical, achievable direction for a bright future that we can create together.

"The Busy Soul" is designed for people who want to bring meaningful rituals into their daily lives, even-or especially-on those hectic, activity-packed days.

The journey of the spirit is not marked by a smooth, four-lane highway. Rather, like the path through a Zen garden, it is curved, with many switchbacks and lots of turns. While there may be many beginnings, there really is no destination. Its goal is self-awareness, enlightenment, and inner peace. It is a journey we take with our lives.

In his latest book, Rabbi Terry Bookman explores the many ups and downs associated with the life of the spirit. Drawing on the ancient traditions of Judaism. "A Soul's Journey" serves as a kind of roadmap for the path, offering practical insights and modern applications along the way.

Rabbi Bookman has been described as a "wise and compassionate teacher" who combines knowledge from a wide variety of disciplines and religious faiths to challenge and encourage his students and readers. He is the author of two books, "The Busy Soul" and "God 101," and the co-author of two CDs of contemporary Jewish music.