Important Safety and Security Updates and Trainings
The safety and security of our congregation remains a top priority. We work with our staff and security partners to ensure that we identify and address any risks. Our Safety and Security Committee, chaired by Frank Friedman, meets regularly and helps to make decisions regarding our safety and security related practices. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our Executive Director; Dan Deutsch. As always we appreciate the support we receive from our partners.
Weapons Policy as may be amended from time to time at the sole discretion of Temple Israel (the “Policy”)
(Last updated September 2025
Temple Israel (“TI”) strictly prohibits the possession of Weapons (as defined below) of any type, concealed or otherwise, indoors and outdoors at Temple Israel-owned and/or controlled properties and spaces or at off-site TI events (the “TI Properties”). This prohibition does not apply to Weapons carried by: (a) Trained security personnel working for agencies contracted to provide security by TI, (b) sworn federal, state, or local law enforcement officers of the jurisdiction in which the TI Properties are located who are legally authorized to carry firearms in that jurisdiction and are on the TI properties in the course and performance of their official duties at the request of TI. Law enforcement officers bringing firearms onto TI premises must carry valid identification that establishes their law enforcement status. Only uniformed officers shall be permitted to openly carry firearms on TI-owned properties. Individuals (other than those noted above) carrying Weapons will not be permitted to enter the premises. TI will not provide storage for Weapons. Any exception to this policy must be approved by TI’s Executive Director in writing in advance and such writing must be carried by the individual along with valid identification and a copy of their permit to carry such Weapon. As used in this Policy, “Weapons” include instruments used to inflict physical harm, that are intended to inflict physical harm, or that could reasonably cause fear of infliction of harm including imitations, and any item that may be deemed weapons under applicable law. A disarmed weapon and/or ammunition are Weapons. Temple Israel reserves the right to use weapons detection systems upon entry; patrons with pacemakers or other implant devices should request assistance prior to going through these systems.
Conduct Policy
September 2025
We commit to safety, respect, and responsibility in all spaces: In accordance with our Weapons Policy, weapons — including firearms, knives, and pepper spray — are strictly prohibited. We do not tolerate violence, threats, or bullying of any kind. These standards reflect our values of Responsibility, Humility, and Respect. We each take ownership of our behavior, honor the experiences of others, and contribute to a safe and inclusive environment.
We approach every interaction with curiosity, compassion, and presence: Civil discourse is encouraged, but disrespectful or aggressive behavior is not. We are expected to be kind, courteous, and respectful, even during moments of disagreement. We give our full attention to the conversation (“I am here”), listen with an open heart and curious mind (Listen), and recognize that everyone’s story is sacred (Respect).
We act with awareness of time, place, and impact: We are mindful of when and how we speak, ensuring our words and actions reflect pride in ourselves and consideration for others. Using I-statements (Who am I), we take responsibility for unintended impact (Responsibility), and turn discomfort into growth (Go Forth). Our behavior should always reflect civility, kindness, and a willingness to learn in community.
