Putting it all together

Friendship – Judaism – Mentorship – Community

By Bruce Tomar

Over the last four issues I have expanded on just what these words mean to us as FJMC and as members of the larger Jewish community.

Last year, we adopted our new name – FJMC International – and our new and ongoing mission:

FJMC provides men opportunities for personal growth and to build strong relationships.  We accomplish this through: celebrating Jewish learning, traditions and culture; gathering for social events and retreats; performing service projects; engaging over Israel; combating hate and antisemitism; mentoring the current and next generation of leaders; prioritizing our health and wellness; and supporting one another in safe and nonjudgmental communities.

Many have asked, what does FJMC stand for now? Rather than FJMC just being an acronym for Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs, it is much more. It is not just four letters that everyone in the Masorti universe recognizes; it stands for the leading Jewish men’s organization.

The four words – let’s say them together, “Friendship – Judaism – Mentorship – Community” – are the essence of our being. For all of the now 96 years of our existence there has never been a time when these pillars were not at the forefront of our minds and programs.

For me, personally, in all of the meetings, retreats, leadership conferences and conventions I have attended, the four absolutes I have felt was the:

• Friendship – the warm greetings, hugs and ruach
• Judaism – not just ritual, but the spirituality and spirit
• Mentorship – teaching, learning and sharing
• Community – a feeling of brotherhood, and sharing a common goal.

This is what FJMC means to me, and I hope to you as well.

Yours in brotherhood,

Bruce Tomar

Bruce Tomar is president of FJMC International.