Stern, Rabbi Dr. Arthur (AJRCA 2020)
Rabbi Arthur Stern is the rabbi and spiritual leader of Temple Israel. He earned an MBA and a master’s degree in Spiritual Psychology, a Doctorate in Psychology, as well as a master’s degree in Rabbinic Studies.
Sanderson, MJS Chaplain Jonah (AJRCA 2021)
Jonah Herbert Sanderson, who received his Masters in Jewish Studies from the AJRCA, is a Professional Chaplain with the National Association of Jewish Chaplains.
Gostein, Cantor Abby (AJRCA 2021)
Cantor Abby Gostein received her ordination and Master’s Degree in Jewish Sacred Music from AJRCA in May, 2021. She holds a BA in Psychology from Yale University and an MA in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Texas, Austin.
Rafii, Cantor Jacqueline (AJRCA 2021)
Jacqueline Rafii is delighted to join the Valley Beth Shalom family as its new Cantor, working alongside Cantors Baron and Fox. Cantor Rafii brings her vision for building, engaging, and invigorating Jewish community through uplifting music, creative initiatives, and spiritual leadership.
Come Together in Song with Cantor Marsha Attie of Congregation Emanu-El of San Francisco
Getting ready for High Holy Days – Please check out this beautiful rendition of Or Zarua by Cantor Marsha Attie
Sigal Samuel of American Jewish World Service
Author Sigal Samuel posted an article on Deuteronomy 22:5, which addresses the Biblical prohibition against cross dressing.
HOLY, HOLY, HOLY Sermon & Song — Rabbi-Cantor Cheri Weiss
As we approach the High Holy Days, please check out this video recorded by Rabbi Cantor Cheri Weiss entitled “Holy, Holy, Holy” for Yom Kippur.
Environmental Responsibility
In Shoftim, Rabbi Sacks teaches us that while some commandments are so narrow that they may not effectively be fulfilled, others are so broad that they cannot be ignored. The laws governing conduct during a siege against an enemy, such as preserving trees, are examples of the latter category.
Re’eh
Re’eh exhorts us to clearly see the choices that are laid out before us and to choose the way of blessing. We are commanded to see because without clear vision we may not be able to distinguish between blessing and curse.
Axelrad, Rabbi Rachel (AJRCA 2020)
Rabbi Rachel Axelrad was ordained at AJRCA in 2020. She joined Desert Outreach Synagogue (DOS) as Associate Rabbi in 2021, working with her close friend and colleague, Rabbi Dr. Jules King (AJRCA 2018) where she provides adult Jewish education, leads Shabbat services, and manages pastoral care and crises in Rabbi King’s absence.