Ethics Code

Approved: 2/27/24

PART 1: INTRODUCTION

Bet Shalom is a Reform Synagogue affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ). Our

Synagogue is an inclusive congregation that demonstrates respect for the needs of all.

Through worship, learning, and a concern for social justice, we strive to better ourselves,

our community, and the world at large.

Our Jewish values embody the teaching that every human being is created in the image of

God (b’tzelem Elohim). We therefore strive to hold ourselves to the highest standards of

personal integrity, social responsibility, and human decency. When we behave ethically and

hold ourselves accountable, Bet Shalom is a safe, welcoming, and sacred environment.

This values-based code of ethics sets forth the principles and expectations for adherence to

standards of conduct for our clergy, Board of Trustees, congregants, staff, visitors, and

guests, whether participating in a Bet Shalom activity that is in the building, online, or

offsite. This Ethics Code is subject in all respects to the terms of Bet Shalom’s Articles of

Incorporation and Bylaws, which are controlling in the interpretation and application of this

Ethics Code.

PART 2: CODE OF ETHICS

EXEMPLIFY HOLINESS (K’DUSHAH)

Bet Shalom welcomes all who wish to engage with our community.

● We embrace everyone without regard to age, ability, race, ethnicity, nationality, gender,

gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, or socioeconomic status.

● We strive to make all who participate in our community feel a sense of belonging with

the expectation that their ideas and concerns can be openly stated and responded to

with respect.

HONESTY (YOSHER)

Bet Shalom expects all who engage in our community to conduct themselves in an honest manner.

● We promote open and honest communication that allows for addressing differences

constructively.

● We protect the confidentiality of information, either about an individual or the

synagogue, and do not disclose it without permission. For example, this includes

personnel information such as employment status, compensation, and performance

review, as well as personal information about an individual’s health, financial status, or

family matters.

● We respect the efforts of others and do not take credit for their work. 

● We make decisions regarding synagogue-related matters with transparency, openness,

and accountability, unless confidentiality dictates otherwise.

HONOR (KAVOD)

Bet Shalom values acting with integrity.

● We act solely according to the synagogue’s best interest when acting on its behalf.

● We refrain from using one’s synagogue position for personal advantage or benefit.

● We are bound by sacred obligation to uphold financial agreements made with the

synagogue. If a change in personal circumstances occurs, we will inform those

charged with managing synagogue finances and make appropriate arrangements.

● We conduct employment practices and related decision-making in an ethical and legal

manner. We establish and enforce the appropriate policies and procedures to protect

the employees of the congregation, such as fair employment policies, grievance

reporting, and conflict resolution procedures.

COMPASSION (RACHAMIM)

Bet Shalom embraces the fundamental value of performing acts of loving kindness (g’milut

chasadim).

● We treat others with respect, dignity, fairness, and compassion.

● We refrain from derogatory speech, negative talk, gossip, and slander, whether in person

or on social media.

● We oppose bullying, including any unwanted behavior that degrades, humiliates, or

oppresses another. Verbal, physical, or cyberbullying is never acceptable.

JUSTICE (TZEDEK)

Bet Shalom believes everyone entering our sacred space has the right to feel safe and

respected, and that we are morally and ethically responsible for one another (kol yisrael

areivim zeh bazeh).

● We do not tolerate sexual harassment, including unwelcome sexual advances, requests

for sexual favors, and other verbal, physical, written, or visual conduct of a sexual

nature.

● We do not tolerate acts or behaviors that exploit the vulnerability of another, take

advantage of a power imbalance, compromise one’s moral integrity, or create an

intimidating, offensive, abusive, or hostile environment.

● We strive to protect those who appear to be the victims of abuse or neglect,

including spousal abuse, child abuse, verbal abuse, physical abuse, and other types

of domestic violence.

Procedures for addressing allegations of unethical behavior are available on request from

Bet Shalom’s main office.