The Dance with Tradition: Two Generations of the Independent Minyan in America

Abstract

The paper examines two waves of independent, non-denominational minyan -development activity in the Jewish community in the United States, separated by 30 years (1980’s and 2010’s).  With striking parallels, the two movements make up one congregational model.  Examining their common patterns, the analysis identifies three frames in which to understand their founding and the source of their stability and longevity when it is attained.  Three frames explain these patterns: the demographic frame which relies on notable internal homogeneity; the religious frame, which refers to ongoing tensions and patterns of change in religious organizations in general; and the skills/quality frame, which refers to a dynamic and pattern specific to the minyanim .  This last frame connects to the difference between ascribed and achieved status/identity in Jewish life as an important dynamic in Jewish continuity and change, and as the “engine” of Jewish congregationalism.  The conclusions refer not only to the founding of independent minyanim in this model, but also suggest key dynamics in Jewish congregational and community life in general.