Rabbi

Established in the mid-1980s, Kehillat Lev Shalem, the Woodstock Jewish Congregation(WJC), is a 300+ household synagogue where the founding members remain actively involved and new members continuously add to the vibrancy of our community. The WJC is a community of Jewish seekers from a full spectrum of Jewish practice, including those who came to Judaism by choice and/or partnership. This is an opportunity to join a sought-out congregation known for its welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where we pray together enthusiastically, share simchas, mourn losses, learn, grow, advocate for social justice, and work towards tikkun olam together. We are seeking an inspirational leader to guide our unaffiliated, progressive, diverse, vibrant, multi-generational congregation. The ideal candidate creates a worship service that is joyful, contemplative, music-filled, and participatory. This rabbi loves to teach, and values Jewish education in all its manifestations. The candidate must wholly embrace interfaith families as well as members with varying degrees of observance. All families that wish to raise their children as Jews are welcome. All parents are invited to participate in school activities. For many years before gay marriage was legalized, our policy was that the rabbi would perform commitment ceremonies. Since legalization, several weddings have occurred. Gay members participate fully in congregational life, including serving on the board and on committees. Several young people on the spectrum have grown up in the congregation and are welcome at all events. We do not have a requirement that the rabbi maintain a kosher home. All food brought into our building must be dairy/fish/vegetarian. We are committed to offering multi-access (hybrid) services for Shabbat and holidays from now on to serve our local community and to enable people from all over the US and other countries to continue to attend via Zoom. Areas of responsibility: Worship Leader, Education, Pastoral Duties, Community & Administration.  Qualifications: Ordination from a rabbinical seminary following completion of a multi-year program of rabbinic study and a minimum of 3-5 years experience as a congregational rabbi; soon-to-be ordained rabbis may be considered, Comprehensive Jewish spiritual and cultural knowledge, Strong working knowledge and proficiency in Hebrew, nusach, and liturgy, Accepting of a spectrum of religious beliefs, practices, and observances, Welcoming to people of all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances & Excellent verbal and written communications skills. A successful candidate will: Bring a joyful presence on the bimah, Demonstrate the ability to inspire and connect with a spiritually vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming community, Value music as a key component of service leadership, Hold high personal, ethical, and professional standards, Possess outstanding leadership and interpersonal skills, Collaborate effectively with volunteers, staff, and lay leaders, Foster collaborative relationships with other local religious and social service/social justice organizations, Teach Jewish values and perspectives in a broad spectrum of congregational programming, including meetings, gatherings,and casual interactions & A passion for Yiddish is a plus! Salary Range: $110,000 – $140,000, commensurate with experience. Benefits: We are committed to supporting our rabbi with a benefits package that suits their needs. Full-time. To apply for the position send the following required application materials: Cover letter detailing your suitability for our position & Current, detailed resume Optional Materials: Written sample or video of your work (service, sermon, music…). Send cover letter and resume to: https://www.wjcshul.org/rabbinic-application-submission-form/. Chair of Search Committee: Ellie Kramer, e-mail: [email protected].   Website: https://www.wjcshul.org. 

(11/2/23)