Our Rabbi
Before coming to us in 2013, Rabbi Ginsburg has served Congregations in Brooklyn, Minnesota, and Skokie. He has a BA in Religion from the University of Chicago, where he was a valedictory orator in 1978.
He earned an MA, Rabbinic Ordination, and Dr. of Divinity, Honoris Causa from the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. One of his favorite contributions to Judaism is his 800+ videos of Jewish content on YouTube.
As one congregant wrote: “Jonathan is the first Rabbi I’ve known who can reach all congregants regardless of their Jewish background and education. He is simply the best teacher. He explains prayers, services, and holidays augmented by his delightful personal anecdotes. Above all, Jonathan is approachable, warm, and welcoming. He is generous whether hosting an event in his home or sharing his knowledge and ideas. He is a true mensch and I am grateful to have him in my life.”
I somehow happened on B’nai Chai’s High Holy Days service a few years ago and found the mix of traditional liturgy and English a fine balance. The simplicity of the essentials and the richness of the service was brief and yet complete. The wise and yet unpretentious sermon and commentary of Rabbi Ginsburg appealed to me. The cost of membership was so marginal above the HH tickets, I joined. I was not disappointed. Our Shabbat services and holiday observances are short and sweet. There is much communal participation from anyone who is willing. ~ Barbra G.
We indeed are a chavurah of empty nesters who want the camaraderie and identification of belonging to a Jewish religious organization, but who do not want the burden of buildings and board politics. It’s easy to be a member; you can be as involved or not, as you please. We are a sociable group, and as you might expect, friendships form based on chemistry and shared interests. We make time for schmoozing at services and have both Jewish and secular events. Even though we are a small budget entity, we are blessed by Rabbi Ginsburg’s erudition and desire to teach. I am a regular at our monthly Torah-Talmud-History-Ethics class. Finally, even though we are Zoomers these days, the energy to keep going is strong.
~ Larry G
