At this writing, I am approaching my final week as rabbi of Temple Beth-El of Las Cruces, moving into the title of Rabbi Emeritus on July 1, 2020.
June 6, 2020 marked the 39th anniversary of my ordination as a rabbi by Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, Ohio.
I served as a student rabbi at a congregation in Illinois every other weekend for three years, as well as working at the congregation where I grew up (in Kanas City) as a rabbinic intern for three summers. All of that training, plus my classes at rabbinic school, offered opportunities to accumulate the knowledge and to develop the skills I would need as a congregational rabbi.
The operative words on my ordination certificate indicated that I would teach, “YOREH,” and decide or judge, “YADIN.”
After 39 years, I can say that I have done both in ways that I did not expect or imagine.
Most any clergy person has the responsibility to guide his or her congregants in the teachings of the particular faith group and denomination/branch which he or she represents.
That can involve modeling practices that enliven holiday and life celebrations and developing supportive acts that assist people in need in the greater community.
Spiritual leaders may feel compelled to interpret the values of his or her tradition regarding how to approach issues of the day. Current questions might include: how do we best apply the principles of our tradition to combat racism, to end discrimination, and to promote acceptance of all individuals as children of God who were created in the divine image? And, how can we safely re-open our houses of worship?
In religious congregations, leadership includes striking a balance between the spoken word and music during worship. It requires sustained efforts to nurture a productive partnership between clergy and lay leaders. It is about being warm and welcoming to newcomers and long-time members alike.
When conflicts arise, leadership involves both “teaching” and “deciding.” First, it is important to outline a range of faith perspectives on the issue at hand. In some cases, a final decision might come from the clergy person. In others, it is a board vote, after hearing the views of lay leaders and clergy together, that provides a final determination.
A few years ago, I was waiting to make a turn onto a major street in Las Cruces. Before the light changed, I noticed a bumper sticker on the car in front of me that taught an important lessons about leadership: “When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.”
I later learned that the quote was attributed to guitarist/singer/songwriter Jimi Hendrix.
That statement teaches that leadership is not just about the power and authority that comes with holding a certain position. It directs leaders to take responsibility for their actions and to make decisions based on love, concern and respect for the people whom they serve.
And, of course, it is possible to lead without holding an official position or title.
So may we find ways, in our daily lives, to set an example, to teach, and to choose the right course of action, always based on the timeless values of goodness, consideration, compassion and love.
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