Congregation Kol Ami began a new era on July 1 when Doug Alpert stepped to the bimah to lead Shabbat worship. That evening it was announced that Alpert had officially become the synagogue’s new spiritual leader. Alpert succeeds Cantor Paul Silbersher who retired last month after serving the congregation since it was founded in June 2003.
Kol Ami’s new president Nadine Gordon is excited about the congregation’s future.
“Kol Ami is a special community,” she said. “We’re known for being warm and welcoming, our vibrant worship ... and our fabulous music. We are an open, inclusive, evolving community, and we feel fortunate to have found a spiritual leader who not only honors what we have already created, but sees so many opportunities to expand. The fact that he has been right down the street is kind of amazing.”
For the last three years Alpert has served as the rabbinic intern for Congregation Ohev Sholom. He is completing his rabbinic studies at the Academy for Jewish Religion in Riverdale, N.Y., and will be ordained in May 2012. He also holds a master’s degree in Judaic Studies from the Siegal College of Jewish Studies in Cleveland.
Alpert is an attorney and a life-long Kansas City resident. His professional background includes work in real estate and not-for-profit management. He was the executive director of the Kansas City Jazz Commission and served as legal counsel for the International Association of Jazz Educators.
“Serving a synagogue is the fulfillment of a dream I have held for many years,” said Alpert. “My past experience with congregational life, both at Ohev Sholom and elsewhere has helped me to recognize the traits of warmth and communal connection that I think are vital to the success of any synagogue community. I recognized those attributes in the Kol Ami community from the first time I was welcomed in to lead worship and study. Our talented musicians led by Patrick Buckley, the work of Steve and Linda Sackin in our extraordinary garden, Stan and Carla Strauss’ heading up our religious school, and the incredibly involved lay leadership are all assets that will make my work easier and more joyful.”