Since sitting on the bima the Friday night of my bat mitzvah weekend, I have known that becoming a rabbi was my calling. The feeling was unlike any I had ever experienced before. I can still remember the rush of emotions as if it were only yesterday.

I had been preparing for years and the time had finally come. Seated between my mother and father in front of God and the world, I was ready to take action and proclaim my dedication to God and Judaism. Moments before my first part, my rabbi crossed in front of me and winked. It was that second that I realized how the rabbis in my life had truly impacted me.

Becoming a rabbi is what I consider my calling. However, I believe this term needs great explanation. It is a yearning that burns inside of me. Even though I find it impossible completely and accurately to describe the desire, I believe it imperative to try my best. I have found a great amount of spiritual connection to God through my experiences and learning.

This is something that some people have not found, have given up looking for or are still struggling to achieve. I hope that each time I find something else that connects me or enriches my connection to Judaism I want to share it. My calling I believe is to learn, study and struggle. However my calling goes further because I want to teach and help others with their studying and finding their own personal connection. Teaching has been a big part of my life; it started with being a teacher’s aide at Sunday school, tutoring Hebrew and eventually becoming the religious school coordinator at Stephen S. Wise Temple. I find, however, that some of the most rewarding teaching does not take place in the classroom. Many times we learn from our educators and rabbis in informal educational settings, and even during every day events. Over the years I have had many experiences that have left me very excited and in a state of knowing that my calling was what I really wanted and needed to do.

Even during the first few days at CST I can tell this is the place for me. The warmth and vibrancy of the staff and members is truly amazing. Rabbi George could not be a better mentor and role model. My office is filled with beautiful flowers and sunlight! I have already enjoyed meeting everyone that has walked into the building, and I am eager to meet the rest of the community! Please don’t be a stranger; call me or stop by! I feel really blessed to be a new member of the CST community.

B’Shalom,
Rabbi Stephanie