Did you know that St. Louis has many female Jewish clergy sitting at the helm of congregations? The overall number of local women clergy says a lot about the St. Louis Jewish community and how it embraces women as leaders. Women’s Philanthropy, for the first time in recent history, is bringing together these extraordinary women for an insightful program, taking place on Tuesday, January 13, 2015. The panel of seven clergy will give some insight into their journey to becoming a member of the clergy and will highlight themes of feminization of Judaism, women in leadership and traditions that each follow. There will be time for a question and answer period with the audience.
The panel will include: Rabbi Amy Feder, Congregation Temple Israel; Rabbi Andrea Goldstein, Congregation Shaare Emeth; Rabbi Elizabeth Hersh, Temple Emanuel; Cantor Sharon Nathanson, Congregation B’nai Amoona; Maharat Rori Picker Niess, Bais Abraham Congregation; Rabbi Brigitte Rosenberg, United Hebrew Congregation; and Rabbi Susan Talve, Central Reform Congregation. To commemorate this landmark program, the following Rabbis are invited to lead the Shehecheyanu: Pamela Barmash, Ari Shachar Hendin, Tracy Nathan, Roxanne Shapiro, Dale Schreiber and Deana Sussman.
“Women’s Philanthropy is proud to bring this talented group of women together for this special program, said Julie Gibbs, Director of Women’s Philanthropy. “We hope to ignite and energize our community in this celebration as we listen to the stories of these strong leaders,” Gibbs continued.
To honor these incredible women, prior to and at the event, individuals will have the opportunity to make a tribute in honor of one of the participating clergy. The donor’s names will be displayed on a “Mid-Western Wall” located at the event. The honorees will be notified of the tribute. Further information can be found at WP.JFedSTL.org/WomenClergy.
The event will take place at the Jewish Community Center, Arts & Education Building. The 7:00 pm program will be preceded by drinks and appetizers at 6:00 pm; dietary laws observed. Due to the generosity of the Sherri Schechter Memorial Fund, this event will be free to the public. Home Care Assistance of St. Louis and Vitas Healthcare are proud sponsors. For more information or to RSVP, contact Becki at WP@JFedSTL.org or 314-442-3751.
Women’s Philanthropy provides an opportunity for every woman in the St. Louis Jewish community to connect with other women, our agencies and programs to inspire social good in St. Louis, Israel and around the world. As a place for women of all ages, backgrounds and interests, Women’s Philanthropy supports and enhances Jewish community life through fundraising efforts and special programs.