History
I grew up culturally Jewish. My Jewish mother was bored by synagogue, and my Catholic father rejected his religion, so we celebrated Jewish holidays at home and with family and friends. As an adult I was curious, and decided to explore Jewish tradition. I found it was more relevant and open than I'd expected, and that, at the core of Judaism is not dogma, but a search for what really matters. I eventually decided to become a rabbi, and was ordained by the Reform or Progressive Movement after 6 years of study in its rabbinic school. I was a congregational rabbi for several years, yet was aware of the many Jews and their family members who weren't finding the meaning in Jewish tradition that they sought. One way I found to offer more was by officiating at weddings, and I love doing so. I also created and direct Jewish Gateways, an organization that offers an open environment for people to explore Jewish tradition and connect with it in ways they find relevant and meaningful.
Specialties
Officiation at Jewish, Interfaith and LGBTQ Weddings Congratulations and mazal tov on your upcoming wedding! Choosing the right officiant is an important decision. I want to help make it as easy as I can. I offer you my expertise and experience, based in 20 years as a rabbi, and my humor, honesty and respect for you and your vision for your wedding. I also bring my warmth, openness and down-to-earth approach; ability to listen deeply; and dedication to shaping a ceremony that is memorable, moving and inclusive of your families and guests. Your ceremony will reflect and celebrate who you are, whether you are Jewish or interfaith; spiritual, cultural or religious; a heterosexual or a same-sex couple. In addition to planning your ceremony, our time together will also be an opportunity to strengthen your relationship as you prepare for your future together. I'd love to speak with you about your hopes for your wedding, share my approach and answer any questions you have. Please contact me by phone, message or through my website to schedule a free, no-obligation, one-on-one consultation with me, in person, online or by telephone.