Written by: Ian Kaner, President
Welcoming Our Interim Rabbi, Rabbi Rosalind Glazer
As we continue to reflect on our community’s needs and aspirations, Temple Israel has chosen to bring in an interim rabbi before engaging in a formal search for a permanent spiritual leader. This intentional pause allows us the opportunity to listen, learn, and plan thoughtfully ensuring that our next steps align with our vision for the future.
It is with great excitement and deep gratitude that I share the news that Rabbi Rosalind Glazer will be joining Temple Israel as our Interim Rabbi for the coming year.
Rabbi Glazer brings a remarkable blend of experience, energy, and spiritual depth. She is just completing a successful interim year at Bet Am Shalom in White Plains, NY, and brings with her a global portfolio of meaningful Jewish leadership. As the founder of Joyful Jerusalem Lifecycles & Destination Celebrations, Rabbi Glazer has led Bar/Bat/Brit Mitzvah and wedding ceremonies around the world, always with warmth, inclusivity, and intention.
Ordained at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College in 2003 and made Aliyah to Israel in 2012, she considers Jerusalem her forever home, even as she shares her gifts with congregations across the U.S. From leading Torah study and teaching mitzvot to serving as High Holiday cantor in communities from Honolulu to Poughkeepsie, Rabbi Glazer’s passion for Jewish life is palpable.
What stands out most is her deep commitment to helping youth discover meaning in their heritage and find their voice as Jews in today’s world. Her approach is soulful, egalitarian, and joyfully rooted in tradition.
To help us begin this journey together, we’re inviting all members of the community to join Rabbi Glazer for two informal Zoom gatherings. These sessions are an opportunity to get to know her, ask questions, and share your hopes and concerns in a welcoming space.
Zoom Dates:
Tuesday, July 2 at 12:00 PM
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/
Monday, July 8 at 6:30 PM
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/
We are fortunate to welcome such a thoughtful and inspiring leader during this transitional chapter at Temple Israel. I look forward to all we will learn and build together in the months ahead.
To learn more about Rabbi Glazer, visit: https://www.rabbi-rosalind-
A sincere thank you to Rich LeSavoy and Fran Berman for their tireless efforts over the past five months leading our rabbi search process. Their thoughtful guidance, commitment, and care have helped bring us to this exciting new chapter in Temple Israel’s journey.
L’Shalom,
Ian Kaner
President, Temple Israel of Portsmouth
