Small Congregations Conference

Conference Highlights

• Strengthening the Lay-Clergyl Relationship: practice using tools to enhance the partnership between lay leaders and clergy
• Strengthening the Small Synagogue: recruiting members, serving current members, reaching a wide geographic area, and going beyond the walls of the synagogue with limited resources
• Strengthening Ourselves: time for Limmud (learning), Tefilah (prayer), and Hizzuk (support) among lay leaders and clergy together
• Conference Timing: Our program begins Sunday, June 8th at 3 PM and goes until Tuesday, June 10th at 1 PM.

PLUS: Robust opportunities for informal conversations at meals; Opportunities to share new ideas, challenges and successes; Monday optional free evening or group dinner reservation

Who Should Attend

This conference is designed for small congregations with 250 member units or fewer, and we highly recommend that participating synagogues have a clergy member on staff, whether a rabbi or cantor.

Interactive Learning Experience

We’re encouraging teams composed of clergy and presidents (or presidents-elect) to attend together, allowing for a shared learning experience. Our sessions will be designed to be interactive, fostering a collaborative environment where ideas can flourish.

Facilitated Sessions

Instead of traditional keynote speakers, facilitators will guide our discussions to ensure a more engaging and participative atmosphere.

Networking Opportunities

In addition to structured sessions, we will create space for informal conversations during meals and between sessions. This will provide you with invaluable networking opportunities to share ideas and best practices. 

Registration and Logistics

Participants will be responsible for their own travel and accommodations, with O’Hare being the closest airport. We have identified two suggested hotels, and we’ll coordinate transportation to and from the host synagogue.

We encourage synagogues to consider subsidizing attendance for their leaders to ensure that everyone can benefit from this enriching experience.

Mark your calendars for this transformative event! Stay tuned for more details, including registration information and the finalized schedule. We look forward to seeing you in Chicago!

Register Here!