Rabbi

Temple Israel, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, seeks a permanent Rabbi to start July 2026. Temple Israel, a conservative synagogue which is over 100 years old, is a thriving, egalitarian, and diverse congregation with 350 families. The rabbi is the sole religious leader for the congregation, fulfilling roles that include being a prayer leader, Torah reader, conducting life cycle observances, pastoral care, member engagement, outreach to potential new members, and being a major voice for the Jewish community in the wider region. Portsmouth is a socially progressive and civically active community; and this prominent rabbinical position provides opportunity for direct engagement in both the Jewish and wider communities throughout the region. We are looking for a rabbi who is willing to honor the Conservative roots and history of Temple Israel, and at the same time be responsive to the diversity of our congregation and the changing times. Our egalitarian community is affiliated with United Synagogue for Conservative Judaism, and our members come from a broad range of backgrounds and maintain various levels of Jewish practice in their daily lives. Our membership includes congregants from the former Reform synagogue in nearby Dover, NH, which closed in 2018. Temple Israel includes many interfaith families and is welcoming and affirming to our LGBTQ+ members. While maintaining certain traditions, we welcome new ideas and traditions. Temple Israel is financially strong, is debt-free and has recently instituted a new membership model (Terumah) that invites all of our members to give at a level that is meaningful to them. Those who can are encouraged to exceed the sustaining amount, while those who cannot give at that level can set their own giving level without explanations or excuses. Qualifications: Rabbinic ordination, At least 3 years of pulpit experience, Membership in the Rabbinical Assembly preferred but not required & Musical skills a plus. Salary and Benefits: Salary range $150,000-$170,000, 5 weeks paid vacation, Matching contributions to a retirement plan & Health insurance subsidy of up to $5,000 per year. Send Resumes and Cover Letters to: Susan Grodman, Search Committee Chair; [email protected]. www.templeisraelnh.org. 

(5/6/25)