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The Need to Belong
Publication Date: July 2009
Publisher(s): National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership (U.S.)
Author(s): Steve Greenberg
Series: CLAL Community and Society Archive
Special Collection: Berman Jewish Policy Archive
Topic: Culture and religion (Religion and religious groups)
Keywords: Synagogues; Community; Identity Formation
Type: Brief
Coverage: United States
Abstract:
The author analyzes how many are searching for a synagogue that provides a comforting and supportive community in their lives. He writes about his experiences in the synagogue he joined as a teenager, and notes how there was such a strong and warm sense of community there, yet the members didn't have all that much in common. Ultimately, he asserts that while we may look for a community to provide us comfort, it will be more fulfilling when we find a community that we can actually provide for and give back to.