In his book, Relational Judaism, Dr. Ron Wolfson describes the engagement strategy of Chabad as “radical hospitality.” He portrays Chabad rabbis as those who “build personal relationships, beginning with a nonjudgmental welcome.” While reading this insightful book, I asked myself, “How can radical hospitality be infused into synagogue buildings?” I have worked as a sacred space planner since 1970 and have learned that synagogues are unique in that they are specifically designed as places for liturgy, learning, and community building, whereas most other houses of prayer are set aside for worship only.
Hospitable temples and synagogues are barrier-free, making it easy for all persons with different needs to enter and exit. Bright and cheery entrances or lobbies are furnished with places to sit, welcoming desks, and/or monitors for providing information. Emissaries greet everyone including congregants and strangers. There are spacious gathering places not only for Shabbat lunch, but for other activities as well. More synagogues now have a café alongside the bookstore and gift shop. Rooms are designated to serve teens, child-care, and educational programs for all ages. In the sanctuary there is abundant natural light, energy efficient light systems, and excellent acoustics so everyone can see and hear without strain. The seating plan is comfortable, flexible, and arranged so all congregants can feel like participants during worship. The bema itself is barrier-free and non-hierarchical. Some newer synagogues even employ projected imagery to complement worship.
It is often said, “We shape our spaces and then they shape us.” Temples or shuls that practice radical hospitality are relational places. When designed with this goal in mind they can be agents of transformation and enablers of spiritual growth.
