Since childhood, Jewish community and the Jewish life have been at the center of my world. As a rabbi, it is my task to help facilitate the ongoing connection between Jewish folk, their tradition and their cultural heritage, though prayer, study and social justice.

I have lived in Israel for over half of my life, serving in the Israeli army, voting in elections, raising children, hoping to contribute to Israeli society by offering a liberal-progressive type of Judaism, one that seeks to include others, including non-Jews, instead of pushing away those of different mind and practice. I love the people of Israel and I love the land of Israel.

In devoting the last 15 years to the Jewish Diaspora, I have tried to spread the same message of appreciation for our Jewish heritage and lifestyle, while continuing to promote a message of inclusion and interfaith dialogue. I love the Jewish people wherever they dwell on this earth. 

But I also stand for justice, human rights and peace. So, while I stand with Israel, I also stand with the people of Gaza and of Palestine, as I do with all innocent bystanders of war around the world.

It’s not easy to hold those multiple, and sometimes opposing, truths, all at once. But it’s something I feel I must do.