Leadership and Governance

The URJ offers a variety of training and engagement opportunities and resources that emphasize critical thinking and practical skills.

Developing leaders is critical to the success of congregations. Each congregation should strive to have a pipeline of lay leaders who work in sacred partnership with clergy and professionals or amongst themselves.

Person attending an online class

URJ Online Courses For Congregational Leaders

In a world where time is precious and congregational leaders are called on to do more and know more, the URJ has launched a number of online courses. These asynchronous courses are a way to take a deeper dive in an area of synagogue life around issues that congregants are seeking to understand and help leaders look to the future in a more strategic, thoughtful way.
Collage of people meeting and speaking

Leading Change: A Union for Reform Judaism Summit

Last fall, the URJ announced that we would not be holding Biennial or Consultation on Conscience in 2021. Now, we are thrilled to share that we have re-imagined those gatherings as one brand-new, compelling Reform Jewish leadership conference.
Looking at congregation from the bimah

The Scheidt Seminar

Funded through the generosity of the Scheidt family, the annual URJ Scheidt Seminar for Presidents and Presidents-Elect convenes congregational presidents to learn, network, build relationships, and enhance leadership skills. It serves as a springboard for learning throughout presidents' terms.
people attending a workshop

Board & Leadership Workshops

A URJ board workshop is a 5-6 hour workshop, included in your URJ membership, tailored to your congregation’s individual needs and interest. URJ-trained lay leaders or staff will work with your congregation to create and facilitate an interactive session at your congregation. URJ Board Workshops will be offered online only through December 2020.
Mountain climbers helping each other reach the summit

Developing Leaders

Explore the opportunities and resources provided by the URJ to strengthen your congregation as you identify and train a pipeline of competent, engaged future leaders. Register for online training courses, with a special track for Small Congregations.
hand putting coins into a light bulb

Financial Leaders Training Courses

These online courses, available on a rolling basis, provide a basic introduction for lay leaders who have little to no experience with finances, and are intended to help them be more prepared to participate in financial conversations. They are also a valuable opportunity for lay or professional leaders who are looking for a refresher in congregational finances.
hand holding coins with plant growing from the coins

Building a Culture of Philanthropy

Raising money is a fact of congregational life, but many congregations are finding that the tried and true practices that worked for generations no longer resonate with today’s synagogue members. Learn today's most successful best principles and practices with online courses, workshops, and downloadable resources

Shallat Rabbinic Transition Seminar

In July, many congregations begin or continue the process of rabbinic transition. The URJ can help congregational leaders and clergy through this process.

Small Congregations Worship Training

The URJ Had'rachah Program trains lay leaders from small congregations with a single clergy member or no full-time clergy to conduct worship services and life cycle events.