This week, at the Federation Board meeting, we were joined by Rabbi Aaron Bisno of Rodef Shalom Congregation.  Rabbi Bisno encapsulated his contemplations from two widely released pieces of thought about the Jewish community entitled Courageous Conversations (click here and here  for the two articles) . I encourage you to read his pieces to understand how Rabbi Bisno frames his thoughts about how the Jewish world needs to rethink how it does business.  It launched our Board into a deep, thoughtful and open conversation.  There were no specific outcomes from our discussion and that’s okay, as I believe the only outcome necessary was that leadership begins to struggle with some of the ideas.  I look forward to continued dialogues among all Jewish organizations and synagogues so that we can build the Jewish community of the future for Pittsburgh.

So many offices are holding their holiday parties this time of year and the Federation is no exception.  Our annual Staff Chanukah luncheon was a big hit.  We recognized staff who have reached milestones in their careers at the Federation, from 5 to 25 years.   We even had a little bit of fun.  Thank you to all my colleagues on staff for everything they do. 

Wishing you all a Shabbat Shalom and a happy Chanukah.

P.S.  No message next week!