The boards of trustees at Temple Israel and Shaare Emeth have announced that the congregations will cease discussions of a possible merger between the two congregations.

In April, the boards of TI and Shaare Emeth voted to explore a potential merger.

The congregations released the following statement this morning:

After engaging in a very thorough and lengthy process, Congregation Temple Israel and Congregation Shaare Emeth have jointly decided to cease their merger discussions. The dialogue between clergy, lay leadership and membership from both congregations has been exciting, productive, and educational. From the beginning of the exploratory process, the congregations’ shared goal has been creating and sustaining a dynamic, engaging Reform Jewish community for their members. At this time, the congregations have mutually concluded that the best way to accomplish this goal is by allowing the congregations to pursue independent paths that accentuate their respective strengths. Both congregations are strong, vibrant and positioned for future success.  

The exploratory process afforded each congregation an opportunity to share their values with one another and develop mutual respect for one another’s accomplishments. The congregations emerge from these discussions energized about their futures. As opportunities arise for collaboration and coordination, the congregations welcome the opportunity to work together and with other community institutions to further the interests of the St. Louis Jewish community.