Our Brit Shalom – Covenant of Peace

At Or Shalom we gather as a sacred community — a mishkan built through the presence and participation of its members. Each of us arrives with our own stories, hopes, and perspectives.

We know that we do not all see the world in the same way. Our community holds a wide spectrum of views. Rather than seeking uniformity of thought, we commit ourselves to a shared way of being with one another.

We strive to meet each other with kavod, honoring the dignity and humanity of every person here.

We listen with curiosity before judgment, remembering that every voice comes from a lived story we may not fully know.

We are mindful that our words carry the power to wound or to heal. We speak from the heart, choosing language that connects rather than divides.

We know that disagreement will arise. When it does, we commit to staying in relationship and resisting the impulse to dismiss or shame those whose views differ from our own.

Because we gather for spiritual connection, reflection, and prayer, we are mindful of how divisive messaging—spoken, worn, or displayed—may impact others. We commit to maintaining our bayit as a welcoming and supportive sanctuary by exercising care and sensitivity in our expression.

We remember that this community is larger than any single issue or moment. What binds us together is our shared spiritual path — our commitment to Jewish life, learning, prayer, justice, and the ongoing work of building a world rooted in compassion.

May this be a place where we approach complexity with humility, where differences do not undermine our sense of belonging, and where we continue to recognize the dignity of each person.

Together we build a community of shalom — not the absence of disagreement, but the presenceof dignity, care, and sacred connection.