February 3, 2026
There is a concept I value deeply: The Art of Invisible Leadership. It is the idea that when you walk into the sanctuary on a Friday evening, you are not thinking about the lighting, the temperature, or the countless logistics behind the scenes. Instead, you are free to enter into a profound spiritual experience. When everything works seamlessly, it allows the sacred to take center stage.
The Sacred Business of Community
It can be easy to view the business of a synagogue as budgets, maintenance, setups, resets, and endless logistics—“just business.” At Beth Tikvah, there is no such thing. Every decision we make reflects our values. This is what I call the Sacred Business of Community.
When we maintain and invest in HVAC systems, we are not simply purchasing machinery; we are ensuring that every congregant—young and young at heart—can sit comfortably during services and gatherings. When we meet regularly to balance our funds, we are not just doing math; we are practicing tzedakah, ensuring that there is never a financial barrier to belonging at Beth Tikvah. When we support and oversee our staff, we are living the value of kavod (respect), creating a workplace grounded in dignity, teamwork, and a shared purpose to serve our Beth Tikvah community.
Last month, we said goodbye to Enos as he began a new chapter in his life (he shared with me that he is happily holding his chair down), and we welcomed Obaidullah, a new Afghan SIV (someone arriving with a Special Immigrant Visa), whom Beth Tikvah has helped support, sponsor, and resettle in the United States. Obaidullah recently began custodial work at Beth Tikvah part-time. This is a win for Beth Tikvah and a win for Obaidullah as he continues his search for a position that takes advantage of his academic training. Obaidullah holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and an MBA with a specialization in finance. These moments reflect who we are—a community guided by compassion, responsibility, and care for one another.
Much of my work as Executive Director, and the work of our entire staff, lives in what I call the “quiet experiences.” These are the moments that feel seamless: the technology that allows a grandparent 3,000 miles away to watch a grandchild’s B’nai Mitzvah, or the security measures that let you breathe a sigh of relief as you walk through our doors.
This month, we are grateful for a generous donation from JewishColumbus, which provided the new Verkada Security System for synagogues and Jewish institutions throughout the Columbus area. The system offers enhanced camera coverage and a new access control feature, allowing congregants who download the app to enter the building securely. If you have not received your invitation to the app, please contact me. As we continue to strengthen and refine our security, we remain in close partnership with the Worthington Police, as well as the Perry and Sharon Township departments.
Each month, Beth Tikvah is filled with services, classes, programs, and community gatherings. These moments do not happen by accident. They are the result of a dedicated team working at the intersection of logistics and love. My role is to manage the “gears” of this institution so that you can focus on its soul.
We also have much to celebrate. Our Mishpacha Appeal, our largest annual fundraiser supporting Beth Tikvah’s operating budget, has been a tremendous success. Thanks to the generosity of all of you, we reached our goal of $60,000. Your giving allows us to think creatively and expansively as we develop programs and services for all ages. Every contribution matters, and every gift is meaningful. For those still considering donating, it is not too late. Gifts made in our current fiscal year (25–26) will continue to enhance our services, events, and programs.
Looking ahead, I invite you to join us on February 7 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM for the 2026 Souper Bowl, now in its 18th year, a chai year. This beloved event raises funds to help send Beth Tikvah children to Jewish overnight camp. Each year, the Souper Bowl helps create opportunities for Jewish connection, growth, and lifelong memories. The Souper Bowl is made possible through months of planning by our Brotherhood and the dedication of both professional and amateur chefs. Applications for summer 2026 camp scholarships are available by clicking here or in our weekly emails.
As we move into this next season, I am deeply grateful for your partnership in this sacred work. While much of what I do happens behind the scenes, its impact is only possible because of the vibrant, engaged community you create every day.
Beth Tikvah is built by each member—new and not so new—who show up, form relationships, and strengthen our shared future. We are truly grateful that you are part of our community.
This article was written by Debbie Vincour, Executive Director of Congregation Beth Tikvah, and published in Tikvah Topics on February 3, 2026.