Baltimore Synagogue: Open Floor Format

Baltimore residents often view synagogue attendance as a passive experience. Kol HaLev changes that expectation by inviting participants to speak openly during Shabbat services. This approach distinguishes the congregation from traditional models where the rabbi leads the ceremony while the audience listens in silence. Executive director and treasurer Alan Silver described the format as a core feature of the community. He noted that prospective members often find the interactive style refreshing. Many visitors tell him they prefer this dynamic over a standard rabbinic monologue. Silver said the unpredictability of the service is a key appeal for attendees.

Rabbi Emily Stern guides these Saturday morning services with a focus on direct engagement. She prompts congregants to share their thoughts during morning blessings of gratitude. Participants repeat the prayers and then explain what they are feeling in that specific moment. Stern said the community often shares personal details about their lives. One member recently told the group about upcoming surgery and expressed nervousness about the procedure. She also expressed gratitude for the support of the community members around her. Stern observed that this level of sharing creates a deep sense of connection among attendees.

The leadership team identified a specific social problem as a driver for this method. They cited the epidemic of loneliness as a primary concern for their congregation. Stern holds the additional role of mashpia, a Jewish spiritual connector. Silver said this background helps her facilitate social interaction. He explained that the environment Stern creates allows people to feel comfortable speaking and acting. He noted that her training in active listening is more important than her title as a rabbi. Silver said there are many rabbis in the area, but Stern’s specific skill set sets her apart.

Stern views listening as a central duty for both leaders and members. She described listening as an active experience rather than a passive one. She considers it a privilege to hear what others are saying. This practice helps individuals define their own path within Judaism. Stern said she works to understand where each person stands in their spiritual journey. She then tailors her rabbinic approach to fit their specific needs. Her goal is to make religious practices relevant to each person’s daily life. She asks members to consider how spiritual images nurture their personal lives.

The synagogue holds weekly Shabbat services on Fridays and Saturdays. Stern said these sessions offer a clear view of the congregation’s unique outlook. She noted that every service follows a different path. The variation keeps the experience fresh for regular attendees. The bond formed through this open communication strengthens the overall community. Stern said knowing what is happening in members' lives improves the function of the synagogue. She believes the whole community feels this benefit in their daily interactions.

Silver said Stern sets the tone for the entire institution. He said her emotional investment is visible in her communication. He has served on other synagogue boards and worked with different rabbis. He said he can tell how the congregation is feeling just by listening to Stern’s voice. If a positive or negative event occurs, her tone reflects the community’s state. He said he can even hear tears in her voice over the phone if something bad happens. Silver said this level of care shows that Stern is deeply invested in her members. Kol HaLev has operated for nearly 20 years with this model. Silver described the result of this approach as quite lovely.