JRC Ethics Code

Judea Reform Congregation (JRC) is a vibrant, multi-generational Reform congregation, guided by tradition, grounded in the modern world, and infused with the sacred values of our faith. We are an inclusive congregation that demonstrates respect for the needs of all and the teaching that every human being is created b’tzelem Elohim (in the image of God). To realize this vision, Judea Reform Congregation must be guided by the Jewish values of K'hilah K'doshah (Sacred Community), Kavod (Honesty), Derech Eretz (Integrity), Rachamim (Compassion), and Tzedek (Justice).

All who participate in the JRC Community must strive to live consistently with these values, for the character of our Community ought to be a reflection of how we all interact and treat each other.  When we behave ethically and hold ourselves accountable, Judea Reform Congregation is a safe, welcoming, and sacred environment. 

Accordingly, we have created this Ethics Code, based on the core values noted above, which sets forth the principles and expectations for adherence to standards of conduct for our clergy, congregants, and staff  in their daily lives, and visitors and guests while participating in congregational activities (the “JRC Community”). Conduct in accordance with this Code is an explicit responsibility of each person in the JRC Community and reported allegations of behavior in contravention of the values articulated in the Code will result in investigation and measures to address the situation as outlined below.

This Ethics Code is not intended to supplant any standards of conduct or workplace procedure articulated by law or in any employment manual.

K’HILAH K’DOSHAH/SACRED COMMUNITY

Judea Reform Congregation welcomes all who wish to engage with our sacred community. Every individual who enters our holy community is valued. We, the JRC Community, will conduct ourselves and our relationships in an open and honest way, treating others with respect, dignity, and fairness. We embrace everyone without regard to religious background, age, ability, race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, or socioeconomic status. 

KAVOD/HONESTY

Judea Reform Congregation expects all who engage in our community to conduct themselves with honesty and respect for privacy. When acting on behalf of the JRC Community, we will base our conduct solely on the best interests of the synagogue under applicable laws and regulations. We, the JRC Community, will promote open and honest communication that allows for addressing differences constructively.

DERECH ERETZ/INTEGRITY

All within the JRC Community are expected to act with integrity, including and in particular with respect to financial matters.

RACHAMIM/COMPASSION

Judea Reform Congregation embraces the fundamental value of compassion.

TZEDEK/JUSTICE (SAFETY)

Judea Reform Congregation believes everyone entering our sacred space has the right to feel safe and respected, and that we are, morally and ethically, responsible for one another (kol yisrael areivim zeh bazeh).

To read the full length text of our Ethics Code and to learn how we will address ethics allegations, Click Here.

If you would like to make an ethics allegation report please email the Current President of the Board, Executive Director Emily Young, or Rabbi Matthew Soffer.