What do people call me? Rabbi Aderet, Aderet
Organization: the Den Collective
Where was I ordained? Jewish Theological Seminary of America (JTS)
What do I love most about my work? Connecting with people and creating spaces for people to learn, explore, celebrate, connect, discover and find their place on their own terms in the beauty of our Jewish tradition. I love teaching, making relevant and contemporary connections to the wisdom of our Jewish tradition, gathering people around a Shabbat or festival holiday table, serving as a pastoral presence for individuals, couples and small groups. I find tremendous meaning and joy when I am invited to create sacred space and hold people during their life cycle events as they celebrate, mourn and mark significant life transitions.
How is Judaism valuable in my life? Judaism brings tremendous meaning and richness to my life. My initial path was to becoming a physician. During my freshman year in college I had a powerful experience learning with the campus rabbi at a Shabbat service where I thought to myself, maybe I too, could become a rabbi one day. At the time I was not aware of women rabbis (I had not seen any growing up), and quietly told myself that was not possible. Years later, after taking the MCAT, graduating pre-med, and meeting more and more women rabbis, I began to reflect on the path that I was on and recognized that while I loved working with people, creating spaces for healing, community building, I wanted to find a way to also tap into the spiritual part of my life. I had a life changing conversation with my then boyfriend (now husband and partner), where upon hearing my reflections, he asked me, “Is there anything else you have thought about doing? I’ve only heard you talk about becoming a physician.” It was then for the first time since my initial thought about becoming a rabbi back in college that I said out loud, “I thought about becoming a rabbi.” And as they say, the rest is history. This was one of the best decisions I ever made.
What programs and services do I run or offer? Weddings and other Lifecycle Events, Group Learning, LGBTQIA Counseling, One on one Learning Opportunities, Conversions, Shabbat Services, Holiday Services, Couples Classes, Young Family opportunities, Adult B’nai Mitzvah, Counseling
