Rabbi or Cantor Position 

Temple Israel in Springfield, Illinois, seeks a part-time rabbi or cantor to provide spiritual leadership, teaching, and pastoral presence. Founded with roots in the Conservative movement, we now embrace a transdenominational approach that values inclusivity, pluralism, and meaningful participation. Our members actively assist in leading prayers, singing, and chanting Torah and Haftarah, and we welcome a rabbi who appreciates a collaborative and engaged community. Springfield, the capital of Illinois, is a welcoming mid-sized city of approximately 115,000 residents, with two synagogues, a Jewish Federation, and many joint religious events. It is rich in history as the longtime home of Abraham Lincoln and offers a blend of cultural attractions, parks, and accessible living. The city is conveniently located about 1.5 hours north of St. Louis and 3.5 hours south of Chicago, providing easy access to major metropolitan areas. Responsibilities: Worship Leadership: Lead Friday evening and Saturday morning Shabbat services two weekends per month. Deliver thoughtful, engaging sermons on traditional and contemporary themes. Coordinate with congregants who assist with singing, Torah reading, and Haftarah chanting, Teaching and Study: Conduct Torah study sessions during scheduled visits or at other mutually agreed-upon times. Foster an inclusive learning environment that reflects the congregation’s transdenominational identity & Pastoral and Community Engagement: Meet one-on-one with congregants during visits to Springfield (Thursday–Sunday or Friday–Monday). Offer pastoral support and guidance and be a welcoming rabbinic presence. Presence and Scheduling: Spend two weekends per month in Springfield. Typical visit schedule: Option A: Arrive Thursday, depart Sunday orOption B: Arrive Friday, depart Monday. Additional remote engagement may be arranged as needed. Qualifications: Ordination from a recognized rabbinical or cantorial seminary. Strong liturgical skills and comfort leading services in a participatory community. Ability to teach Jewish texts with clarity, depth, and accessibility. Warm interpersonal style, pastoral sensitivity, and the ability to connect with diverse congregants. Appreciation for a transdenominational community enriched by Conservative roots. Compensation is negotiable and will reflect experience, responsibilities, and agreed-upon schedule. Interested candidates are invited to submit a résumé, a brief statement of rabbinic philosophy, and contact information for references. Please send application materials to Dr. Harry J. Berman, Chair, Temple Israel Rabbi Search Committee, at [email protected] or 217-299-1984. https://www.facebook.com/p/Temple-Israel-Synagogue-100064598292980/. https://www.shalomspringfield.org/community-directory/temple-israel.

(12/10/25)