Lilmod – Aside perhaps from the Lubavitcher Rebbe zt’l, R’ Noach zt’l was perhaps the single most important and influential individual, Gadol, Tzadik to shape the kiruv world. I didn’t read it in a book, or hear it from someone else. He told it to me. I choose to heed his approach over others you may find more palatable.
I do, however, agree that there is micro-kiruv, if you will, sharing something learned, something experienced, and the joy of that coming closer to Judaism. And then there is macro-kiruv, where one is immersed in kiruv with people who have no Jewish background and bring other influences. I think Rav Noach zt’l was talking about micro-kiruv in that statement.
I agree that one who engages in full-bore kiruv needs several things. One, a Rav who can act as an advisor. Two, a rock solid emunah. Not blind, but built on an immersive Jewish education, life experience, and attention to sources. Three, an excellent but practical halachic immersion. Not one of being a kanoi. One with the understanding of the latitude and kulos that many Gedolim have applied to the sensitive work of kiruv. Four, self confidence WITH humility. Confidence in their education and emunah, humility in knowing there is much still to learn. Fifth, compassion. If you haven’t walked in the shoes of the person you are being mekarev, and you likely haven’t, you MUST be compassionate enough to know your approach may not heal, salve or answer their very real challenges, and you have to be OK with that.
Lastly, something I learned from a former boss of mine who ran a very successful branch of an international kiruv organization. As a kiruv professional or lay outreach worker, you have to ask yourself: What is my goal? To reach 10 people who I can introduce the beauty of yiddishkeit to who I will foster until they are 100% chareidi? or to reach 1000 people who I can give the tools to make Jewish choices in their lives, give opportunities for further learning and growth, but not expect to all become frum, let alone chareidi? Once you’ve answered that question, you will find that your approach and your philosophy of kiruv will have directed you to the conclusion you came to, and will inform your actions going forward.