Congregation Beth Torah has announced the arrival of Rabbi Steve Burnstein as its rabbi-in-residence for three months, beginning at the end of November.
Rabbi Burnstein currently serves as the spiritual leader of Kehilat Birkat Shalom at Kibbutz Gezer, a member congregation of the Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism serving central Israel. He lives at Kibbutz Gezer with his wife, Varda Livney, and their children, Micah and Gavriella.
With more than 30 years of experience in Jewish and Israel education, Rabbi Burnstein holds a B.A. in Jewish history and an M.A. in Jewish education from the Jewish Theological Seminary. He was ordained as a Reconstructionist rabbi and has been active in the Reform Movement since 1989 — the same year he joined Congregation Beth Torah as its first religious school educator and leader. Rabbi Burnstein made Aliyah in 1996.
During his residency, Rabbi Burnstein will lead several Shabbat services, offer learning opportunities for adults and children and provide pastoral care as requested. In addition to his work at Beth Torah, he will participate in a variety of synagogue and community education programs.
Rabbi Burnstein will also bring perspective on life in Israel during and after Oct. 7, sharing both personal experiences and insights from those he serves.
Event details are available at beth-torah.org or by calling (913) 498-2212.