Community
North London shul launches ‘pay what you want’ membership scheme
New Stoke Newington congregation hopes initiative will help those of lesser financial means 'and empower those who can give more'
May 3, 2019 10:05
New Stoke Newington congregation hopes initiative will help those of lesser financial means 'and empower those who can give more'
May 3, 2019 10:05New Stoke Newington Shul is offering what it believes is the first “pay what you want” UK synagogue membership scheme in a move to boost its coffers.
Inspired by similar initiatives in America, the Masorti congregation’s Rabbi Roni Tabick has written to existing members to inform them of the change.
“Instead of asking everyone for the same amount, we’re following the example of Moses and the building of the tabernacle,” he explained.
“We’re asking you to donate whatever your heart moves you to give and trusting that we will have enough to continue as before — and perhaps more than enough, so we can begin to expand.”
The letter includes a detailed breakdown of the shul’s running costs and suggested membership fees based on personal income.
“I am really hoping that it will empower people who can’t afford [the current fee], but also empower those who can give more,” he told the JC.
“Our community is diverse and people come from a range of socio-economic backgrounds. This way I hope we can feel more inclusive.”
He noted that those in financial difficulty had “traditionally had to call up and have an awkward conversation. Equally, the shul has had an uncomfortable question [to ask] when it goes to those it thinks can give more.
“This way, our members know what our costs are as a shul and can feel empowered and more knowledgeable about what they are giving.”
Members currently pay an annual fixed rate of £285 per person, with a significant discount for those in full-time education, or people aged under 30.
However, running costs are “significantly higher”, averaging £350 per person a year.
“A lot of our members are under 30 but at different stages of their life,” Rabbi Tabick said. “For example, you might be a student not earning very much. But you could also be a doctor with more disposable income.”
In separate correspondence, NSNS chair Amelia Schamroth wrote: “We would like to move to a fairer, more progressive model, where those less financially able don’t need to apologise or ask permission to pay less.”
In the new structure, which took effect at the end of April, suggested contributions for those earning up to £29,000 are between £55 and £275 a year. People with an income of £150,000 or more are encouraged to pay between £550 and £825.
Rabbi Tabick said members would never be asked to declare their income. “We only ask for people to be as honest and as generous as they can.” Nor would questions be asked if those now paying £285 opted for a lesser amount.
The annual membership does not include burial rights but people can opt into the Jewish Joint Burial Society for an extra yearly charge of £52.
The shul currently runs services twice a month, either in members’ homes or rented premises. Leaders hope the changed fees scheme will fund more regular services, particularly if it attracts additional members.
“I think the new model will feel less like you are paying for a service and more like you are contributing to a community you care about,” Rabbi Tabick concluded. “Part of what is holding us back from going weekly is money. We don’t have a building and I would love to be able to do more.”
The venture was “exciting” and other Masorti shuls “will be looking to see how it goes”.
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