Rabbi George Gittleman

Rabbi George Gittleman joined Shomrei Torah as our first full time rabbi and moved with his family to Santa Rosa in 1996. The Shomrei Torah mishpacha (family) has been blessed and strengthened by Rabbi George's leadership in teaching, community building and worship.

In his words, "Welcoming all kinds of people into our diverse community is at the core of our mission and my vision for a Liberal Jewish future in Sonoma County."

George and his wife Laura, a hospital administrator and artist, have 11 year old twins, Sophia and Levi. Their family dog, Sarah, is often found lounging in the Rabbi's Study by day. The Gittlemans cherish their life in Sonoma County and are prominent leaders of the community.

A native of Kentucky, Rabbi George earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in American History from the University of Vermont in 1984.

He embarked on his rabbinical journey after 8 years in computer sales, obtaining a Masters in Hebrew Letters and Ordination from the Reform Seminary, Hebrew Union College Jewish Institute of Religion in 1996. Rabbi George is also a Senior Rabbinic Fellow at the prestigious Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem, having recently completed a three year course of study there.

Rabbi George is an avid outdoor enthusiast. He enjoys gardening, hiking with his dog, Sara, fly fishing and boogie boarding with the family. On occasion, you’ll find him leading Shabbat Services in the woods, on the beach, or outside on the Shomrei Torah patio: “I’m tempted not to utter a word and let the beauty of the landscape be our prayers today.”