ETHICS CODE OF THE TEMPLE, CONGREGATION B’NAI JEHUDAH
As Adopted by the Board of Trustees January 22, 2026
Introduction
Temple B’nai Jehudah is a community built on mutual respect, honesty, and responsibility. This code expresses how we commit to conduct ourselves as members of this congregation. It applies to congregants and lay leadership. Clergy and staff follow separate professional standards.
Section 2. Inclusivity and Respect
Temple B’nai Jehudah is strengthened by the respect and goodwill we show one another. As members of this community, we commit to treating every person with courtesy, dignity, and fairness. We listen generously, speak with care, and seek to understand before judging. We avoid gossip, personal criticism, or speech that demeans others. When disagreements arise, we express our views constructively and with kindness. We maintain discretion when others share something private or sensitive, and we honor one another’s contributions to congregational life. We welcome and include all who enter our community, recognizing that each person adds to the life of the congregation.
Section 3. Personal Responsibility and Integrity
Each of us represents Temple B’nai Jehudah through our words and actions. We strive to act with honesty, fairness, and good judgment in all matters connected to the congregation. We speak truthfully, keep our commitments, and handle congregational information and resources with care. We do not use our participation or position in the community for personal advantage. When serving in leadership or on committees, we make decisions based on what is best for the congregation rather than personal preference or gain. We recognize that integrity builds trust and that our shared trust sustains the strength of this community.
Section 4. Care and Responsibility Toward One Another
Temple B’nai Jehudah is a community built on compassion and mutual concern. We recognize that everyone carries personal joys and challenges, and we strive to treat one another with patience and understanding. We offer support when others are struggling and show respect for personal boundaries. In our words and actions, we seek to create an atmosphere of kindness, safety, and care for all who are part of this congregation.
Section 5. Conduct Within and Beyond the Community
As members of Temple B’nai Jehudah, our actions—both within and outside the synagogue—reflect on our community. We strive to conduct ourselves with respect, fairness, and good judgment in all settings, including when communicating online or on social media. We share opinions responsibly, avoid spreading misinformation, and remember that words spoken publicly can affect others and the reputation of our congregation. We are mindful that our engagement in broader civic or online spaces should reflect the same integrity and respect we bring to our synagogue life.
Section 6. Respect for Boundaries and Inclusion
Temple B’nai Jehudah values a community where everyone feels safe, welcome, and treated with dignity. We respect personal boundaries -physical, emotional, and social – and recognize that each person’s comfort level may differ. We interact with kindness and avoid behavior or speech that demeans, excludes, or makes others feel unwelcome. We affirm that every individual, regardless of background, identity, or life experience, has a place in our congregation and contributes to its strength.
Section 7. Confidentiality and Trust
Temple B’nai Jehudah functions best when people can speak openly and trust that sensitive information will be handled with care. When we are part of conversations involving personal matters, pastoral issues, or internal synagogue discussions, we treat that information as private unless we have permission to share it. We avoid spreading speculation or rumors about others, and we use discretion when discussing synagogue matters outside appropriate settings. Within committees or leadership roles, we respect the confidentiality of discussions so that decisions can be made thoughtfully and with integrity.
