Pronouns: he / him
What people call me: Rabbi Emmanuel
Organization: the Den Collective
Denomination: Pluralistic
Where was I ordained? Hebrew College
Where am I located? DMV
What do I love most about my work? I am grateful that my work each day is filled with many chances to perform mitzvot (plural of mitzvah) with other people. The word “mitzvah” is often translated as “commandment” or “good deed,” but I like a mystical understanding that plays upon its grammatical root “tzavta,” meaning “connection.” The mitzvot that are part of my work—studying sacred texts, exploring spiritual practice, building a just society, accompanying people through illness, loss, and loneliness on the one hand, and love and celebration on the other—are all opportunities for us to connect: to ourselves, other people, the natural world, God, and all that is sacred.
Why did I decide to become a rabbi? In my early twenties I got involved in community organizing, inspired by a vision of relationships at the bedrock of social movements and the belief that we best act on our values together with people we work to know and trust. Many of the organizations I worked and volunteered for in those years were Jewish social justice organizations or movements.
I was always eager to ask people why they wanted to join a specifically-Jewish group when there were many other ways they could be involved in the cause of their choosing. What I heard were stories. Stories of spiritual seekers and Hebrew school troublemakers, of choosing to become Jewish as an adult and of honoring ancestors long past. People were inspired by the warmth of Shabbat, the rawness of Shiva, the calls for justice throughout Jewish history, and the searching honesty of Torah study and discussion. I realized I wanted to support people through all these moments and more. Becoming a rabbi has given me the honor of doing so.
What services do I offer? Weddings/Other Lifecycle Events, LGBTQIA Counseling, Conversions, Holiday Services, Young Family Opportunities, Counseling, Group Learning, 1:1 Learning Opportunities, Shabbat Services, Couples Classes, Adult B’nai Mitzvah
For more information, visit the Den Collective’s website or email me!
