Serving Hudson County’s Progressive Jewish Community for Over 150 Years

What is Terumah?

Not Your Grandfather’s Temple Dues

Terumah is a voluntary financial commitment – you can join at a level that you can afford. We ask that you be both generous and realistic. No questions asked.

Ideally, you’ll contribute  $2700 per year ($225 per month). While we ask for this, if you can’t afford it, please join anyway. $2700 per year is an amount that keeps our synagogue going, including supporting those who can’t afford it. When our members are generous, we don’t have to keep asking for more just to balance the books.

Be a member regardless of what you can pay. And please choose to be generous.

Now let’s get to the nuts and bolts…

How is Temple Beth-El funded?

Annual member support (Terumah/dues) covers about 50% of our operating income. The balance is covered by fundraising, tuition, and other income.

How should I determine my voluntary commitment?

  • Give until it feels good.
  • Please be realistic.
  • Please be generous.

We trust that our members will take the time to understand the Temple’s financial needs. We trust that our members know their own capacity to give.

We ask you to give $2700 or more if you can, especially in these difficult times. This amount allows those who cannot give as much to continue to fully participate, and assures Temple Beth-El’s financial stability.

What about next year?

Each spring we’ll ask you to pledge for the coming year. You can adjust your gift in accordance with your financial well-being. Our fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30; your Terumah pledge and first payment  is due on July 1 each year.

Who will know how much our household pledges?

Your confidential financial information is only accessible on a need to know basis only among trusted and very senior leadership.

How do I make my Terumah commitment?

Current members, click here.  New members, when you fill out our online membership form, there is a page to indicate both the amount of your Terumah for this fiscal year and your preferred payment plan.

Will this annual pledge cover school tuition?

No. Families must be members in good standing to enroll their children in the school so make your Terumah pledge commitment first. Then, enrollment is here.

What if I have more questions?

You may always contact our president, Philip Gary, or leave a phone message for him at the office. He will be happy to speak with you. If you prefer, you may contact Rabbi Moritt.

What our members say about our Terumah program:

“Terumah made it so easy for me to join as a single person just out of college.”

“Giving extra through Terumah is my way of making sure no one is turned away from this congregation that has been my Jewish home forever.”

“Our family showed up looking for a baby-naming and Terumah meant there was no excuse not to join right away.”

“I am proud to belong to a temple on the cutting edge. Bold thinking is what we should be all about.”

“Beth-El has always been sensitive to my financial situation. Thanks for making me feel even more welcome by not having to request special arrangements.”

Ready to join?

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