Offerings of the Heart. This phrase sets the tone for the Jewish spiritual perspective that money is a tool for actualizing God's presence in the world. Building on this core value and setting aside the financial/spiritual split with which many congregational leaders operate, Rabbi Shawn Zevit brings the depth and breadth of Jewish teachings on money and the spiritual life to all faith communities. This book provides texts and tools to help clergy, staff, and lay leaders of congregations of any faith approach financial and other resources as core means to build and maintain whole and holy lives in a communal setting. Zevit demonstrates how faith communities can create values-based approaches to developing and managing financial and human resources that are rooted in the very sacred traditions, principles, and impulses that bring us together.
Fully revised and updated, this 20th anniversary edition of a classic incorporates the insights and practices of a wide range of Orthodox, Conservative, and Reformed congregations in addition to Reconstructionist congregations. It also addresses the growing “free will dues” practice.
How should synagogues and churches raise money, use money, and teach about money? An acclaimed rabbi tells offers a values-based approach to wealth in congregational life.
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How should synagogues and churches raise money, use money, and teach about money? An acclaimed rabbi tells offers a values-based approach to wealth in congregational life.
Foreword by Rabbi Mordechai Liebling
Preface
Acknowledgments
1. The Jewish Way: Text, Tradition, and Today
2. Living the Vision: Mission and Values
3. Money as a Spiritual Tool: Planning and Budgeting
4. Sustaining Sacred Community: From the Half-Shekel to Contemporary Dues
5. Organizing Money: Capital Campaigns and Fund-Raising
6. Tzedakah: Justice Through Giving
7. Money, Values, and Community: A Case Study
Epilogue. Towards a Beginning: A Closing Prayer
Appendix
1. Sample Lesson in Money and Values
Appendix
2. Sample Self-Assessed Dues
Notes
Glossary
Further Resources
Rabbi Shawn Israel Zevit is a dynamic and widely known spiritual leader, activist, liturgist, teacher, singer, author, consultant, and Jewish Mens work leader. He is a 1998 graduate of The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College and is co-founder and co-director of the Davvenen Leaders Training Institute, which trains Jewish Spiritual Directors in the ALEPH Hashpaah Training Program. Shawn serves as lead rabbi at Congregation Mishkan Shalom in Philadelphia.
