Manetto Hill Jewish Center Defying the Trends

When Rabbi David Ross Senter was named spiritual leader of the Manetto Hill Jewish Center, the synagogue was shrinking in size, much like many on Long Island.

That appears to be changing. In the two-and-a-half years of Senter's rabbinate, MHJC has grown from 130 families to about 170, and the trend appears to be continuing. In fact, as older members retire and move away, nearly 70 new families have joined the congregation.

With the High Holidays approaching, the example set by Senter's congregation could be illustrative to others Long Island Jewish communities. Some in the area are struggling with issues ranging from rising costs to changing demographics.

"At a time when others are closing their doors or merging, we are growing," said Senter in a recent interview. "We found ways to attract and target this age group that needed a spiritual home."

That group primarily consisted of pre-Hebrew School families, perhaps young and in struggling with finances and young children.

The Temple's executive board joined with Senter in an innovative initiative. They would eliminate certain costs routinely associated with synagogue membership to attract this demographic.

The three primary innovations are:

• MHJC now offers free Hebrew School. The only cost is a book fee for necessary texts and supplies.
• Through fiscal constraints, the synagogue has also eliminated building fund obligations. Compared with some neighboring synagogues, the annual savings can be up to $3,000.
• The congregation is committed to the premise that financial concerns should never be a barrier to synagogue affiliation. Dues adjustments are always available and confidential, Senter said.