Lay Led

Our members run our entire operation. We have no hired rabbi, no paid executive director, and no administrative support staff. Members also fulfill all ritual roles, leading services, reading Torah, and giving drashot every week. We are led by a moderator, elected by the membership for a two-year term, and are governed by (usually) quarterly town meetings. Our only other officers are a treasurer, assistant treasurer, and secretary. While the moderators steer the ship, they do not set the course. All issues are brought to the town meeting for approval by reaching consensus or holding an up-or-down vote. Between meetings, the moderator makes operational decisions as needed, in consultation with relevant committee chairs.

Participatory

Collectively managing the mechanics of the Minyan is an essential part of our identity, As well as requiring everyone to fulfill one or two basic organizational tasks, such as setting up kiddush, each quarter, we rely on the broad and deep commitment of our members to keep everything running smoothly. Some lead or participate on committees, while others are responsible for vital ongoing operational tasks, such as purchasing kiddush supplies. Another core Minyan characteristic is that ideas and initiatives bubble up, not down. Anyone who comes up with an idea for a new program, event, learning session, or other initiative is free to run with it. Only an idea that requires financial support or has policy implications needs town meeting approval. Our operating principle is, “Let’s give it a try.”

Committees

Much of the work involved in the Minyan happens through committees operating quietly behind the scenes. In addition to the standing committees listed below, ad hoc committees are often established to address a temporary issue.

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