ZEKENIM (ELDERS) COUNCIL

 

The Zekenim (Elders) Council of Great Awakening International

The Zekenim Council is a vital body authorized to direct the spiritual life and civil matters of Great Awakening International (GAi). This council plays a crucial role in ensuring that the principles and values of the GAi community are upheld and advanced in all affairs of the organization.

Structure of the Zekenim Council

  • Composition: The Zekenim Council shall consist of Elders appointed by the Guardians of the Great Awakening and the council itself, subject to affirmation by the Moreh Council.
  • Seasoned and Installed: All Zekenim are deemed seasoned and officially installed by the Great Awakening during a Consecration Service. This solemn event affirms their calling and commissioning to serve the community.
  • Membership Size: The Zekenim Council will typically comprise 6 to 12 participants, allowing for a diverse range of perspectives while ensuring effective decision-making and community representation.

Roles and Responsibilities

The Zekenim Council focuses on spiritual development, dispute resolution, and civil matters within the organization. The council’s responsibilities include:

  • Overseeing Spiritual Health: Ensuring the spiritual health and integrity of the community by providing guidance and direction that aligns with the teachings of the Torah.
  • Conflict Resolution: Engaging in conflict resolution, facilitating communication across councils, and ensuring that disputes are handled in accordance with spiritual principles.
  • Regular Meetings: Meeting regularly to provide coaching, wise counsel, and accountability regarding issues that may arise within the Great Awakening. These meetings foster unity and collaboration among the councils, and they allow the council to provide input and encouragement to leaders throughout the organization.
  • Advisory Role: Serving in an advisory capacity to the Guardians and the Guardian Visionaries, offering wise counsel on various community matters.

Qualifications for Zekenim Council Members

  1. Maturity and Experience

    • Age Requirement: Must be at least 50 years old, reflecting the maturity needed for leadership. Special cases may be considered for individuals under this age, based on experience and demonstrated leadership abilities.
    • Minimum Participation: Must have been an active part of GAi for a minimum of 2 years, demonstrating commitment to the community and its principles.

  2. Training

    • Training Period: Candidates must undergo a 5-month training program that includes comprehensive teachings on the Scriptures, GAi's doctrines, and practical ministry skills. This training program will prepare candidates for the responsibilities of an Elder, ensuring they are well-equipped to lead and teach.

Selection Process

  • Selection by Guardians: Zekenim Council members will be selected by the Guardians based on their experience, character, and contributions to the Great Awakening. This careful selection process ensures that only the most qualified individuals serve in this important advisory capacity.
  • Confidentiality Waiver and Code of Conduct: All council members must sign a Confidentiality Waiver and Code of Conduct Form to maintain integrity, trust, and confidentiality in all discussions and decisions made within the council.

Local Assembly Leaders

  • Title of Zaqen: Any local assembly leader within GAi may carry the title of Zaqen. However, this title does not automatically entail membership in the Zekenim Council.
  • Active Participation: An inactive role on the Zekenim Council does not diminish the importance or value of a local assembly Zaqen. Each Zaqen is recognized for their contributions and leadership in their respective assemblies, regardless of their council status.

Conclusion

The Zekenim Council of Great Awakening International is designed to provide spiritual leadership, guidance, and accountability to the community. By establishing clear structures, responsibilities, and qualifications for its members—including a minimum age requirement of 50 years (with special cases considered), active participation for at least two years, and the completion of a comprehensive training program—the council plays an essential role in shaping the spiritual direction of the organization. The Zekenim Council’s focus on spiritual development, dispute resolution, and oversight of civil matters ensures alignment with the vision set forth by the Guardians. This collaborative leadership approach contributes to a robust community where teachings, values, and missions thrive through wise counsel and united efforts.

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