It has also trained rabbis and lay leaders to bring these traditions into the life of their congregations. Another approach to strengthening the spiritual dimension of Jewish life is to work with synagogues. The synagogue remains the central address of the Jewish community, yet it is a place in dire need of renewal. If synagogues can become more caring communities, if their liturgy can begin to open the hearts of Jews, if their education programs are stimulating to adults as well as children, then many more people will join, and those who belong will participate more fully. Rabbinical schools and rabbis are beginning to face this challenge directly.
Training rabbis to become spiritual leaders requires explicit attention.
The Hebrew Union College in New York, the University of Judaism in Los Angeles, and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College in Philadelphia have all initiated special approaches to developing the capacity of their students to serve as spiritual leaders. The students study traditional texts, work with mentors, meet regularly in small groups, keep journals, and speak consciously of their own spiritual lives. They are learning how to be more aware and more cultivating of their congregants' spiritual journeys. The Reform movement's rabbinical association, the Central Conference of American Rabbis, conducted a two-year study of the worship experience of Reform Jews. They have created an innovative method for congregations concerned about improving the quality of their worship services to make significant changes.