Rodef Shalom, Temple Sinai members approve unification
More than 90% of those voting at both congregations voted for unification
The members of both Rodef Shalom Congregation and Temple Sinai approved a unification of the two Reform congregations during separate June 8 congregational meetings.
In emails to their congregations following the vote, Rodef Shalom President Bill Battistone and Temple Sinai President Marci Solomon both said that over 90% of those who voted did so “in favor of continuing the process of unification.”
The separate emails, which shared similar language, called the votes a “resounding affirmation.”
As the “vote symbolizes endings as well as new beginnings, we can and should be joyful,” the two presidents wrote. “We have much to be excited about as we build a robust and inspired future together.”
The vote is the conclusion of an 18-month process that engaged leadership from both congregations, hundreds of volunteers across several committees and merger consultant David Weinberg.
The new congregation will represent about 1,300 family units — Rodef Shalom currently has about 680 family units and Temple Sinai has approximately 650 — and will be the largest Reform congregation in the region. It will be housed at Rodef Shalom’s building on the corner of Fifth and Morewood avenues.
Temple Sinai’s Rabbi Daniel Fellman and Cantor David Reinwald will become the spiritual leaders of the new congregation, along with Rodef Shalom’s interim Rabbi David Young. When Young’s term ends in 2026, the new congregation will add an assistant or associate rabbi.
A new religious school will be formed, headed by both Fellman and Rabbi Larry Freedman, the director of J-JEP, Rodef Shalom’s joint religious school with Congregation Beth Shalom. Beth Shalom will be invited to continue as a partner in the new school.
Temple Sinai Executive Director Drew Barkley will continue in his role with the new congregation.
“In the coming days, weeks, and months, as we refine our plans, complete the legal steps, and work through questions that will be meaningful to all of us, there will be many ways for you to be involved,” the two presidents wrote to their congregations. “With the collaboration of our clergy, staff, and advisers, we aim to make this transition a comfortable, inclusive, and positive process for everyone.” PJC
David Rullo can be reached at drullo@pittsburghjewishchronicle.org.
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