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We need your voice on May 18!

We need your voice on May 18!

The future of our rabbinic leadership is on the line: May 18th is not business as usual. Find out more:

Letter from Jodi Muirhead and Stuart Katzman

Dear friends,

Our communal memories and founding story here at Shir Hadash are one of hope, strength and innovation. Our commitment to each other, to Judaism and to our core values truly defines who we are. The holiday of Pesach invites us to truly examine our homes and our lives as we sweep out the chametz that symbolically represents what stands in the way between who and where we are -  and who and where we aspire to be. Shir Hadash is at that kind of aspirational moment where the hope and well being of our congregation are dependent on every congregant voting to support our communal vision and leadership on May 18th. 

We are a community of deep love where all are welcomed and embraced. Love and commitment are what drove us over the past several years as we faced a myriad of challenges.  
Just to mention a few: the retirement of our beloved Rabbi Aron during the COVID-19 Pandemic, the departure of our Interim Rabbi in the middle of our rabbinic transition, the joy of paying off the mortgage that was unfortunately accompanied by a revenue shortfall that left us dealing with a very difficult budget.

Despite all these challenges we also had incredible celebrations through increasing momentum in our communal vision as articulated by the Benchmark Study and nurtured under the loving expertise of Rabbi Nico. 
For context: The Benchmark Study was completed in 2021 as part of the Rabbinic Transition process and included an evaluation of the congregation’s future needs and growth opportunities through in-depth survey, focus groups and discussions. 

We are truly elevating life through Jewish tradition as we live our core values through expansive wisdom, determined social responsibility, deep spirituality and layered community. To connect directly with our communal vision and our values in action, please join us any Saturday morning in our Shabbat Cafe where the energy is palpable.

Shir Hadash is looking ahead to celebrating our 45th Anniversary next year. Our Cantor will celebrate her 30th anniversary with the congregation next year. In addition, our “new” Executive Director will celebrate her 20th year serving our congregation in a staff position. The Assistant Rabbi we hope to welcome July 1st has extensive experience in youth education and curriculum development, and is already well established in the national Reform community. Our Senior Rabbi is highly respected in our local Jewish community and the national Reform movement as a visionary leader. The team guiding Shir Hadash under Rabbi Nico’s leadership is committed to the health and wellbeing of our community and to bringing our communal vision to life. And now, we are asking you to make that same commitment. 

The last two and a half years at Shir Hadash have been dedicated to substantial work building our communal vision through purposeful and very needed change. While we are already able to enjoy some of the fruits of that work we also recognize that our leadership fell short at times. In retrospect we understand that not enough conversations, explanations, and communications were available to accompany these changes. And for that we are sorry. This shortcoming became evident when a couple of months ago, the Executive Committee was presented with letters of comments and concerns from a group of congregants. We are incredibly grateful for the mindful comments and the opportunity to improve our practices to better serve the needs of our congregation. 

We have already implemented changes in several key areas of concern, and will continue to update you on changes, challenges and celebrations through our new Note by Note newsletter which will be sent twice a month. Between these newsletters, we are always available to you for questions and feedback. We have also implemented an online feedback system which is being monitored regularly by our staff and leadership team so we can effectively adjust as needed.
 
Unfortunately, the comments we received were also layered with misunderstandings and false statements. These statements have led a group of congregants to believe that the only way forward is by stopping the ratification of Rabbi Nico’s contract. We believe this approach conveys a fundamental misunderstanding of the value of our rabbinical leadership and what is ultimately best for Shir Hadash. 

Rabbi Nico has worked tirelessly on behalf of our community from the moment he accepted the senior rabbi position, even before beginning his tenure at Shir Hadash. We are deeply grateful and honored to partner with Rabbi Nico in leading our congregation. It is no small understatement to say that we are beyond fortunate to have Rabbi Nico as our senior rabbi, and we believe that as we implement changes thanks to the feedback we have received - over time all of our community will feel that same sense of connection and appreciation.

On May 18th we will gather for our annual Congregational Meeting. This is not a typical meeting and it is imperative that every single congregant be in attendance either in person or via zoom. We will present Rabbi Nico’s contract renewal for ratification by the congregation as is our traditional practice, though not a governance requirement. Despite our bylaws not requiring a vote of ratification for the contract renewal, we believe in maintaining the highest standards and practices for our spiritual home. More than that, we believe in you, our community. We believe in your commitment to Shir Hadash. And we believe that through transparency and understanding, you will answer our call to action. 

In addition to stating our strong and unwavering support of Rabbi Nico, we want to be clear that this is not about a rabbinical contract only but fundamentally about the health of Shir Hadash. If Rabbi Nico’s contract is not ratified at the Congregational meeting on May 18th, we would not have a Senior Rabbi leading our congregation on July 1st. Rabbi Nico is beloved by our staff, local community partners and national Reform leaders. Should Rabbi Nico’s contract not be ratified there are a number of immediate consequences for our clergy and staff team. Our Executive Director would not move forward with the renewal of her contract. We do not know the impact that the departure of Rabbi Nico and Shanda Witkin would have on the new Assistant Rabbi we hope to welcome on July 1st or on our other staff members, but we have reason for concern. We are also well aware of the shortage of rabbis within the Reform Movement and the intense difficulty many congregations are facing to find a rabbi - this difficulty would undoubtedly be amplified if Rabbi Nico is removed as our senior rabbi in this manner. 

Beyond the immediate impact on our clergy and staff, as well as the extreme leadership gap that would occur, this would have devastating consequences on our community. Rabbi Nico has fostered a committed group of adult learners - Torah Study is bursting each week with enthusiastic learners from age 16 to 80+ and he is often teaching to packed rooms on Tuesday evenings and Thursday afternoons as well. We have a strong Shabbat minyan seeking the beautiful spiritual space Rabbi Nico has nurtured with Shabbat as the center of our community. Our Kulanu families are invigorated through the changes led by Rabbi Nico and Rabbi Michael, which we hope to have Rabbi Rafi continue in partnership with Rabbi Nico. What would the loss of Rabbi Nico mean for our youth and families? What would it mean for the robust Tot Shabbat that has been nurtured over this year? What would it mean for our High Holy Days which have reached new heights under Rabbi Nico’s tenure? What would it mean for our avid adult learners who have found their place for exploration and curiosity within Rabbi Nico’s classes. Sadly, the most meaningful work of the past two and a half years will be without the leader and momentum needed to carry it forward should we lose Rabbi Nico. 

We do not believe that anyone in our congregation wants this potential reality to unfold. We are committed to transparency, and because of that we want to be very clear on two points. First, as we previously stated, we know we made operational and communication mistakes, and we need to work to gain back your trust from unintended lack of transparency. We know that sections of our congregation have felt left behind. While It was never the intention, we understand that the pain is real and present. 

Second, in order to ensure that Shir Hadash can welcome July 1st from a place of strength, we need each of you to join us on May 18th to vote for the ratification of Rabbi Nico’s contract. We understand that healing needs to take place and we are committed to this critical work. Accordingly, we are reviewing all clergy contracts to ensure that the proper oversight is included for both accountability and support on both sides of these sacred partnerships. We are ensuring our contracts align with the best practices as outlined by the Central Conference of American Rabbis, the representative body of the Reform Movement Rabbis, and the Union for Reform Judaism, the representative body of the Reform Movement. 

It is imperative that your voice is heard and your commitment to the health of Shir Hadash is demonstrated by ensuring we are whole on July 1st. We will not be whole without Rabbi Nico leading us on that day. The loss of Rabbi Nico would certainly be significant, but the unintended consequences on our community would be far reaching. 

We implore you to join us on May 18th, and to bring your fellow congregants, to protect the wellbeing of our home. Please know that we are here to support you and available to discuss any questions you may have. We want to be in dialogue with you and to guide our community through this moment to a place of healing, celebration and joy. 

As we celebrate Pesach and reflect on our communal memories - we know this moment will be yet another defining one for Shir Hadash. We believe this will be a memory of resiliency and hope, a memory of healing and unification. Thank you for joining us on May 18th as we move forward with the deep love that has defined Shir Hadash for the past nearly 45 years. We ask that you partner with us and Rabbi Nico in building together who we will be for the next 45 years.

Shabbat Shalom and Chag Pesach Sameach,
Jodi Muirhead, Board President, board-president@shirhadash.org  
Stuart Katzman, President Elect, board-presidentelect@shirhadash.org

Letter from Rabbi Nico

Dear friends,

One of the boldest teachings in our tradition comes from the Haggadah:
 “B’chol dor v’dor chayav adam lirot et atzmo k’ilu hu yatza miMitzrayim.”
"In every generation, we are called to see ourselves as if we, personally, went out from Egypt."

Jewish memory is never just about the past. It’s not a yearning for something lost—it’s a spiritual tool that calls us to build what’s next. We remember in order to move. We tell the story not to stay in it, but to be transformed by it.

As we prepare to gather as a community on May 18th for our annual Congregational Meeting, I find myself holding that teaching with particular resonance.

We are at a moment that matters—a moment that invites us to consider not only where we’ve come from, but where we’re going. Over the past several years, we’ve weathered a great deal together: leadership transitions, financial pressures, and the long, slow emergence from the disruptions of pandemic life. Through it all, we’ve also planted seeds of renewal—deepening our learning, reimagining our services, expanding the ways we welcome and gather.

This work is not mine alone. It is rooted in a vision that emerged from you—from the conversations, surveys, and hopes that formed the Benchmark Study. My role has been to help carry that vision forward with care, consistency, and love. That work continues.

I also know that growth brings challenges. Change raises questions. And disagreement is part of a living community. Not everything I’ve done has landed the way I hoped—or been received the way I intended, and I regret that. Mistakes, misunderstandings and even deep disagreements are only fruitful when they lead to honest conversation and shared accountability. I welcome that. I believe in that.

What I ask of each of you is this: Stay connected. Show up. Help shape what’s next.

This moment is not only about my contract. It’s about the kind of community we want to be. A community grounded in purpose. Rooted in tradition. Open to transformation.

I am proud of what we have built so far, and I am committed to continuing to serve with clarity, humility, and strength. I hope you will lend your voice and your vote on May 18th—and more than that, I hope you’ll continue building this sacred home with me.

As you sit around your seder tables this weekend and retell our story of liberation, I invite you to carry this teaching with you: memory is not about going back—it’s about moving forward. “We were there,” we say, “and we are still on the journey.” May our shared story give us the courage to keep building, the clarity to keep listening, and the strength to walk forward—together.

Shabbat Shalom and Chag Sameach,
Nico

F.A.Q. - Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the letter from Jodi Muirhead and Stuart Katzman, and the letter from Rabbi Nico necessary?

We understand that for some segments of the congregation, the letters sent on April 11th felt long overdue, and for others these letters were unexpected and shocking.

We believe strongly in transparency and we value all members of our community. We want every congregant to be heard, valued and informed. Accordingly, we felt it was critical to share these developments with the community as a whole and invite everyone to take part in the critical votes on May 18th. As we stated in the letter, our desire is to be in dialogue with all of our congregants as we move forward in our communal journey to our shared vision which is rooted in the Benchmark Study.

While we know that concerns have been voiced—and we take them seriously—there is also widespread appreciation for Rabbi Nico’s leadership across many parts of the community. From adult learning and Torah study, to pastoral support, youth and family engagement, and spiritual growth, many members have found renewed connection, purpose, and joy through his work. It is important for those who appreciate the work of Rabbi Nico and the direction of the Congregation to be informed of the possible implications of the vote on May 18th.

The work towards growth and improvement is ongoing and we are grateful for the faith and patience of our community in this point of transition.

What would it mean to be without a senior rabbi?

A Senior Rabbi is vital to the shepherding of the congregation’s vision and the driving force behind the improvements to and innovations in the programs of our inspiring and welcoming synagogue community.

Rabbi Nico’s experience, heart, and unwavering focus on helping us achieve progress on our congregational benchmarks (for which he was specifically hired) has made him immensely valuable to our community. Rabbi Nico has fearlessly guided us to new heights - we now have an energized adult education program with classes overflowing with attendees, we’ve brought world-class speakers, and created a culture of engaged learners. Youth education has evolved to focus on experiential and joyful Judaism. In Spirituality we have a new singing circle model and enjoy every Shabbat meaningful melodies, powerful prayers, and beautiful instrumentation to elevate the spiritual growth of our community. The friendships and connections in our Community continue to grow through our warm and welcoming weekly Shabbat Cafe, our Kulanu Cafe on Sunday, and also our Shabbat meals, including Shabbat Dinners.

How real are the concerns regarding staff and leadership disruption?

The concerns expressed about staff and leadership disruption are based on actual conversations—not speculation. We don’t claim to predict the future with certainty and we do not want to create fear within our community, but we would be negligent not to name the real risks as we understand them.

What has been built over the last 2.5 years under Rabbi Nico’s leadership?

Under Rabbi Nico’s leadership, we’ve seen a dramatic expansion in adult learning, growing engagement on Shabbat, reinvigorated youth and family programming, and renewed spiritual vibrancy. Many congregants feel more connected, inspired, and invested than they have in years. That includes the Executive Committee, the Board of Directors, and countless congregants across all generations. A few examples of the ways Shir Hadash has grown over the last year alone:

  • Our B’nai Mitzvah cohort has doubled in size
  • Our total membership has not only stabilized but is showing growth for the first time since before COVID.
  • We have tripled the number of visiting scholars, enriching our communal learning and adult education
  • Youth and family programs are thriving, including the launch of Sunday morning Kulanu Cafe with enhanced engagement for parents and kids
  • Our weekly Shabbat morning services continue to flourish, now anchored by Shabbat Cafe and Torah Study. Once a month, we elevate with Tot Shabbat, a Kulanu Youth Service with hands-on parshah experiences, a communal lunch and an afternoon of learning opportunities
  • New families are finding a home in Shir Hadash’s inclusive, musical, and spiritually rich environment

What concerns/feedback were brought to the Executive Committee?

The feedback ranged from very specific and personal preferences, to broader feedback such as elements of our Shabbat Services and communication around Pastoral Care issues. We have already made some adjustments in the amount of English readings in Shabbat services and will continue to evaluate if other changes would improve the experience. We have also reviewed and adjusted our protocols around Pastoral Care to improve communication and implemented Clergy meetings specifically about Pastoral Care matters twice per week.

What changes will be made to clergy contracts moving forward?

As we’ve shared, we are already in the process of implementing a mutual review system rooted in best practices from the Central Conference of American Rabbis—a system designed to include clear expectations, timelines, feedback loops, and space for growth and support on all sides. It’s a structured and transparent model. We believe this model better reflects the values of sacred partnership and shared responsibility that we hold dear.

Is the Board of Directors considering a one-year contract for Rabbi Nico?

The suggestion of a one-year contract with a formal improvement plan has been suggested by some members who have felt their personal needs were not fulfilled, and we understand why it might feel like a reasonable middle ground. At the same time, our goal is not only to ensure accountability, but to strengthen trust and partnership in a way that reflects the unique nature of a spiritual community and the covenantal relationship between clergy and congregation. A one-year contract does not allow for this covenantal relationship, and further does not meet our commitment of meeting all congregants’ needs. While we know that concerns have been voiced—and we take them seriously—there is also widespread appreciation for Rabbi Nico’s strong and visionary leadership across many parts of the community. From adult learning and Torah study, to pastoral support, youth and family engagement, and spiritual growth, many members have found renewed connection, purpose, and joy through his work. That reality of the excellent successes Rabbi Nico has achieved are part of the fabric of this moment too.

Will there be an opportunity to speak at the Congregational meeting?

There will be time for questions following each agenda item as is our practice. Given the complexities of the items being discussed and the number of people we expect to attend, we will carefully manage questions to ensure all are addressed in a timely manner. If you would like a longer conversation prior to the meeting, please contact Jodi Muirhead, Stuart Katzman or Rabbi Nico who are all available to speak with you.

Is there a way to vote if we can't be present?

If you are unable to join us in person, please join us via zoom. The zoom link is available through registration on our website. Our bylaws allow anonymous voting through the virtual platform. If you would like to vote anonymously, please email our Executive Director at shanda@shirhadash.org to request a unique identifier you can enter in place of your name for virtual voting. We have received several requests for proxy votes. Unfortunately, our bylaws require "in-person voting," with the only exception being participation through the virtual platform. Therefore, proxy votes cannot be accepted.

How can I best communicate my concerns and/or opinions with leadership prior to May 18th?

Feedback and concerns may be shared via our new online feedback form, Your Voice Our Future. Additionally if you would like a longer conversation prior to the meeting, please contact Jodi Muirhead, Stuart Katzman or Rabbi Nico who are all available to speak with you.

How has Rabbi Nico responded to the feedback?

Rabbi Nico has received the feedback with grace, care and humility as he remains deeply committed to the well being of our congregation. You may read his words directly in Rabbi Nico’s Letter he recently shared with the community.

Is it normal for congregations to go through a difficult transition with a new Senior Rabbi?

Yes, in the normal life cycle of a congregation, there is always a natural response whenever there is a change in clergy, especially when that change is after a long-time long-serving prior Rabbi has retired. Our leadership worked closely with the URJ as we planned for the transition process to try to alleviate some of the transition challenges we could encounter. Shir Hadash experienced transition challenges when Rabbi Aron first joined us in 1991, and she was not immediately embraced by the community as a whole. Our current transition has been especially challenging for Shir Hadash given the timing with the Covid pandemic, the staff transitions, and the financial challenges that coincided with the start of Rabbi Nico’s tenure.  

Sat, April 26 2025 28 Nisan 5785