Pronouns: he / him
What people call me: Cantor Mike, Cantor Shochet, Chaplain Mike, Chaplain Shochet
Organization: Temple Rodef Shalom
Denomination: Reform
Where was I ordained? Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion
Where am I located? VA
What do I love most about my work? Being one of the senior clergy in my congregation for the past 27.5 years has allowed me the opportunity to get to know my congregants and help them through the celebratory and challenging spiritual moments in their lives, as well as getting to know the community. The Senior Rabbi and myself share a special bond that we hope uplifts our congregation and the community. As an ordained cantor, my role is not limited to music or service leading, but rather I share in the full range of clergy responsibilities of congregational life with my rabbinic and other cantorial partners, from all lifecycle events to conversions, teaching, pastoral work, etc…
How is Judaism valuable in my life? It guides my life with a set of morals, values and spiritual practices that bring wholeness and beauty to my life.
Why did I decide to become a cantor? I entered the seminary in 1990 after being involved in my home congregation as a lay leader.
