The Save Judaism Party

Yes, we have a problem with assimiliation. Jewish identity seems to be weaker than ever among non-Orthodox Jews. The standard measure for Jewish identity - affiliation rates i.e. how many people join our synagogues, JCCs, Federation campaigns, Bnai Brith, etc. - shows steep declines. Self-reported levels of observance are also low - how many people keep kosher, go to services, observe Shabbat at home. So it seems we have a problem inasmuch as Jews are increasingly assimilating and leaving Judaism behind.

But maybe the problem is not the disappearance of Jewish identity but a paradigm shift in how it is expressed. If (that's a big "if") Jewish identity is as strong as ever but is not expressed by joining the local Bnai Brith lodge or becoming a temple member than our data is simply misleading us. In that scenario, it's not that Jews aren't feeling Jewish. It's just that they aren't "joiners" anymore.

Either way, which party will be most important in leading and shaping Judaism for the next generation? Rabbis have long been the go-to (self appointed for sure but also communally authorized) leaders of Jewish communities. There has always, however, been an anti-rabbinic strain in the Jewish community as well. So, maybe we need another party to save Judaism.

Of course, at our temple, we have just experienced a different kind of party and its potential to bring lots of Jewish people together. Our second, adult-only Purim party, Mordecai's Margaritaville was by any standard a great success. We had over 100 people from 30-somethings to Greatest Generationers. And were talking to each other. And dancing together. And sharing drinks and food together (thanks Jerry for the best Margaritas of the night!). And the community felt strong and alive and connected.

This may not be the answer by itself, but we are not the only ones struggling to find the right party to answer our challenges. In Europe, a similar challenge exists. On the one hand, social clubs like Absolut-Events are planning successful parties for young Jews. On the other hand, the rabbinic councils call for more traditional observance and return to "family values." The strength of orthodox Jewish communities shouldn't be easily dismissed. The story was covered recently by the Jerusalem Post. See it here.

Who doesn't like a good party. It may be just what we need.