2 in 2 Challenge

In my Yom Kippur address to the congregation, I introduced the concept of “2 in 2,” meaning create two new relationships or strengthen two existing relationships in the next two years that you could call on in an emergency situation.

While not a formal program or initiative, I believe that striving for “2 in 2” is that one special thing we can ALL do to enhance getting to know one another within our Temple family and Jewish community.

This idea resulted from meetings and seminars presented at URJ conferences, from Past President Rick Glaser’s emphasis on “Relational Judaism” (based on Dr. Ron Wolfson’s book), and from conversations with congregants, clergy, board members, past presidents, staff and lay leaders where I asked, “What would you like our Temple to emphasize for you and your family?”

Temple Beth El offers numerous opportunities to meet and interact with fellow congregants, including Shabbat services, Shabbat Supper Club, Torah study, Tot Shabbat, committee involvement, Brotherhood, Sisterhood, LIBERTY, and SPICE events.  There’s an array of new offerings such as The Porch for singles and young families, the Shalom Park Environment Action group where many Shalom Park partners collaborate, and the Club Sandwich Jewish Living Group which invites those that are caught in the middle of caring for parents, kids and other family members.

While these programs can connect you to congregants, my hope and challenge on the “2 in 2” theme is to have us think deeply about reaching out and building community.  I challenge you to create or strengthen two relationships to the point where you can really count on these people, even in a personal emergency.  Do you have Temple friends close enough to call in the middle of a crisis?  Congregants to put on your child’s school emergency contact card?  Congregants to take care of your home or affairs if you must leave town unexpectedly?  Congregants to drive you to an appointment if you could not get there on your own?  Do you have Temple friends for whom you’d gladly reciprocate these favors?

Starting now, reach out to acquaintances you’ve known casually for a long time or to those people you’ve only recently met.  Be that close friend to a congregant who has just relocated to Charlotte or just lost a loved one.  Be that friend – and build a mutual relationship where you can count on each other in an emergency.  Whether you are 13 or 113, it’s doable.  You will be rewarded day-to-day, even if that emergency never happens.

Jack Levinson