Ken Brodkin: A Shul Becomes Orthodox [Outreach 5/5]
Mar 4, 2025
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In this conversation, Rabbi Ken Brodkin, who leads Congregation B’nai Israel, discusses the transformative journey to full Orthodox affiliation. Eli Kramer shares insights on the challenges and triumphs faced during this transition, including the contentious mechitza debate. Emily Appledorf provides a fresh perspective as a newer member, highlighting the community's welcoming approach to diverse Jewish backgrounds. Together, they explore the delicate balance between tradition and modernity, aiming to create an inclusive environment for all Jews.
Rabbi Ken Brodkin's leadership exemplifies a successful transition of Congregation B'nai Israel to a fully Orthodox synagogue through community engagement.
The podcast emphasizes the significance of personal narratives in Jewish outreach, focusing on deeper connections rather than professional Kiruv methods.
Changing demographics in Orthodox communities challenge traditional practices, highlighting the need for proactive outreach to foster inclusive environments.
Individual journeys within the community, such as interfaith relationships, illustrate the importance of mutual respect and open dialogue in strengthening Jewish identity.
Deep dives
Addressing Controversy and Open Dialogue
A recent controversy discussed involved Lizzie Savetsky and her endorsement of Mayor Kahana's views. The speaker clarifies their stance, emphasizing a commitment to respectful discourse around differing opinions without endorsing radical views. They reflect on the challenge of navigating diverse opinions in their community while maintaining a space for constructive dialogue. Acknowledging mistakes in handling sensitive topics, the speaker affirms the importance of empathy and learning from one another.
Reframing Jewish Outreach
The podcast addresses Jewish outreach with a focus on traditional, meaningful engagement rather than professional Kiruv efforts, which may not resonate with everyone. The speaker expresses a desire to shift the conversation around outreach, emphasizing personal narratives of family history and community involvement. This new perspective aims to connect with Jews on a deeper level, encouraging a collective journey toward understanding Jewish identity. The speaker reflects on witnessing outreach efforts evolving in their community and highlights the profound impact of individual experiences.
Influence of Family Legacy
The speaker recounts stories about their grandfather, Rabbi Moshe Bekrizky, who served as a rabbi in Portland, Maine, and shaped the speaker's understanding of outreach. The memories of growing up with an activist rabbi create a personal connection to the current push for Jewish outreach. The influence of family history helps to underscore the commitment to fostering a sense of continuity in Jewish education and community service. The reflections on legacy raise questions about how past generations' efforts can continue to inspire contemporary Jewish outreach.
Challenges and Changes in Community Dynamics
The speaker raises concerns about changing demographics in Orthodox communities, noting declines in school enrollment and membership. Conversations with fellow community members reveal a longing for deeper engagement, but also resistance to change in traditional practices. The decline in young families moving to these areas stresses the importance of proactive outreach efforts. Creating a vibrant and inclusive community is essential for maintaining a rich Jewish cultural identity.
Story of Congregation B'nai Israel
The podcast shares the remarkable story of Congregation B’nai Israel, which has transitioned from a non-Orthodox to an Orthodox shul, especially under Rabbi Ken Brodkin's leadership. Several congregants join the discussion and share their diverse backgrounds, highlighting their unique paths toward embracing Orthodox practices. The shift toward orthodoxy involves community dialogue and shared experiences that solidify Jewish identity. This transformation illustrates the ongoing evolution of Jewish communities as they adapt to modern sensibilities while remaining rooted in tradition.
Building Community through Connection
The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive environment where all Jews feel welcomed, regardless of their religious background. The voices of congregation members reflect a strong commitment to fostering friendships and engaging in meaningful discussions. Initiatives aimed at welcoming new members, especially young families, illustrate the shifts toward greater connection and communal bonding. Social events that are planned with care contribute to an inviting atmosphere, encouraging participation and unity.
Embracing Individual Journeys
As the podcast highlights various personal experiences, the discussion focuses on the journeys of individual members as they navigate their Jewish identities. Emily Appeldorf shares her own path of integrating her husband's non-Orthodox background into their shared life. The emphasis on mutual respect and open dialogue resonates as a key factor in successful interfaith and interdenominational relationships. This personal growth and discovery foster resilience and strength within Jewish families, creating a supportive community.
Hope for the Future of Jewish Identity
The final part of the podcast brings in feelings of hope and potential for Jewish life and identity. The speaker expresses trust in the lasting connection of the Jewish people in times of change and uncertainty. This outlook encourages embracing conversations about the future with optimism and possibility. As different voices and perspectives come together, the fabric of the Jewish community strengthens, demonstrating unity in diversity.
In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we talk to Rabbi Ken Brodkin, rabbi of New Jersey’s Congregation B’nai Israel, about how he helped turn it into “the Orthodox synagogue for all Jews.”
We also speak with Eli Kramer—a congregant instrumental in helping the shul affiliate as fully Orthodox—and Emily Appledorf, one of the newer members the shul set out to attract. In this episode we discuss:
How can one persuade a century-old congregation with mixed seating to add a mechitza?
Why would a young couple finding their way religiously join a newly Orthodox synagogue?
What draws an Orthodox rabbi to a career serving the whole spectrum of Jews?
Tune in to hear a conversation about the art of building a Jewish community.
Interview with Eli Kramer: 14:23 Interview with Emily Appledorf: 41:46 Interview with Ken Brodkin: 1:05:37
Rabbi Ken Brodkin is the rabbi of Congregation B’nai Israel in Manalapan, New Jersey. Rabbi Brodkin has dedicated his rabbinate to welcoming Jews of all backgrounds to the community and helping them along their Jewish journey. Rabbi Brodkin was hired by the Shul to help lead CBI’s transition to full Orthodox affiliation.
