CCAR RESPONSA
New American Reform Responsa
60. Fund Raising on Shabbat
QUESTION: Is it appropriate for a congregation to discuss matters of fund raising on shabbat? The officers of the congregation would like to meet before or after a shabbat service which they normally attend. (Charles Levine, Chicago IL)ANSWER: The Biblical statement clearly prohibits work on shabbat as recorded in the Decalogue (Exodus 20.8 ff and reemphasized by the prophets (Isaiah 58.13). The Talmud subsequently provided details and specifics which included the discussion of business matters on shabbat although no immediate commercial transactions may have been involved (Shab 150a). There were further discussions later about the permissibility of dealing with communal matters, and a general agreement that matters of charity as well as synagogue affairs might be discussed on the Shabbat (Yad Hil Shabbat 24.5; Tur and Shulhan Arukh Orah Hayim 306 and commentaries). The welfare of the congregation may certainly be discussed on shabbat, but how specific may the meeting become? In answering these questions we must look at the circumstances which led to the permissive attitude. The only day of rest in most previous generations was shabbat. In many periods, therefore, this was the only day on which it was possible for individuals to gather together to discuss communal affairs. That is not our case, as virtually the entire society rests on both Saturday and Sunday and the vast majority in our society people restrict themselves to forty working hours per week. This means that there is ample time during the week for business discussions of all kinds. The necessity of holding such a meeting on shabbat either before or after service has been eliminated. It would be permissible to conduct such meetings during emergencies, but this should not become a regular habit of the congregational officers. We have sought in every way to enhance shabbat and the spirit of rest. It will be difficult for individuals who are normally engaged in business to refrain on shabbat while at the same time engaging in the business affairs of the congregation. The line of demarcation may become gray. We should not do so.January 1990
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