Student Rabbi


גֹּמֵל נַפְשׁוֹ אִישׁ חָסֶד

The merciful one does good to their own soul (Proverbs 11:17)

C.J. Mays

About me

My path so far has been nothing short of incredible. To go from rural backwoods Oklahoma to currently being a student Rabbi in West Hollywood is quite the journey! These experiences have deeply shaped who I am today, guiding me in both my personal growth and my calling as a Rabbi. After studying Political Science and Judaic Studies at the University of Oklahoma, I moved to England where I completed a Masters in Public Policy at the University of Reading graduating with honors. Deciding to return to the U.S. I was then accepted to pursue a Ph.D in Political Science at the University of Delaware. While in graduate school, I made the decision to become a Rabbi instead. My passion for social justice, community service, and organizing led me to the rabbinate, where I could bring those values together in meaningful ways.

I continued my rabbinic studies at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Los Angeles, where I was also heavily engaged with Israel education programming through fellowships with AIPAC, the iCenter, and the New Israel Fund. Additionally, I completed training in mindfulness meditation and became a certified Reiki practitioner—tools I now use to offer a healing, pastoral presence to my community.

I'm particularly passionate about making Judaism relevant for our contemporary world by exploring new and innovative ways of engaging with Jewish ritual. I identify as a Reform Neo-Chasid, blending Hasidic ecstatic spirituality with the vibrancy of Reform practice. For me, there's nothing more transformative than the power of heartfelt prayer, study, and especially niggunim—sung melodies that allow us to channel divine energy and create sacred space together.

I’m committed to fostering a Judaism that speaks to individual needs, sparks spiritual growth, and creates beautiful, transformative moments for those I serve.

For a copy of my Resume and Personal Statement Please Click Here

My Vision for my Rabbinate

Meaningful Ritual
My vision for creating meaningful ritual is to craft experiences that are both innovative and deeply personal, allowing individuals to connect with the divine in ways that resonate with their unique spiritual journeys. While honoring the rich traditions of our faith, I believe in the power of adapting and reimagining rituals to speak to the needs and realities of the present moment. Whether through creative prayer practices, new forms of celebration, or intimate spiritual encounters, my goal is to help each person find a personal connection to Judaism that is both relevant and transformative. In this way, ritual becomes not just an act of tradition, but a path to personal growth and a deeper relationship with the sacred.


Spiritual Self Care
Spiritual self-care is essential to leading a fulfilling and balanced life, and it is a key part of my rabbinate. I encourage my community to prioritize their well-being—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—by developing practices that restore and nourish the soul. Through mindfulness, meditation, and self-reflection, I hope to help others build a deeper connection to themselves and to the Divine. Just as we are called to care for others, we must also make space for self-care, so that we can show up fully for our loved ones, our community, and the world.


Learning & Teaching
Teaching and learning Judaism are central to my passion as a rabbi. To quote Rabbi Shefa Gold, one of my favorite spiritual teachers, I feel called to be a “guide” to help others find the treasures within Judaism. I find great joy in uncovering new insights from our sacred texts and sharing those discoveries with others. Whether it’s exploring the depths of Jewish philosophy, the wisdom of our ancestors, or the richness of our traditions, I am constantly inspired by the learning process. I strive to create a vibrant, inclusive learning environment where people of all backgrounds and levels of experience feel encouraged to engage with Jewish thought, grow in their knowledge, and connect with the timeless wisdom of our tradition.


Ahavat Yisrael

Israel is a key part of my Jewish identity and my work as a rabbi. I am passionate about teaching about Israel through a progressive, Zionist lens—one that values the diversity of narratives and is committed to peace, justice, and equality. I believe that a healthy relationship with Israel includes open, honest dialogue about its complexities and challenges, while also celebrating its incredible achievements and the importance of a Jewish homeland. Through education and engagement, I hope to inspire my community to think critically about Israel, while fostering love and support for the State of Israel within a framework of progressive Jewish values.

Leadership through Service

I view leadership through the lens of service: as a rabbi, my role is to serve and uplift my community in both spiritual and practical ways. Whether it’s providing pastoral care, organizing social justice initiatives, or engaging in acts of tikkun olam (repairing the world), I am committed to leading by example. I believe that true leadership is about humility, compassion, and action. My hope is to inspire others to find ways to serve and make a difference in their own lives and in the broader community, creating a ripple effect of kindness, justice, and love.

My Writing- selected Divrei Torah

Mindfulness is not a technique-it’s a way of being. – Jon Kabat Zinn

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Mindfulness is not a technique-it’s a way of being. – Jon Kabat Zinn ·

Mindfulness

What is Mindfulness Meditation?
Mindfulness meditation is the practice of bringing focused, non-judgmental awareness to the present moment. Through intentional attention to breath, thoughts, sensations, and emotions, mindfulness cultivates a deep sense of presence and acceptance. This practice helps quiet the mind, reduce stress, and develop a greater sense of self-awareness. It is not about eliminating thoughts, but rather about observing them without attachment, allowing for a more peaceful and grounded state of being.

Mindfulness and Health
Mindfulness meditation has been shown to have numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. On a physical level, it can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and enhance relaxation by activating the body's natural relaxation response. Mentally, mindfulness helps to calm the mind, improve focus, and promote emotional regulation. It can be particularly helpful for those dealing with anxiety, depression, and chronic pain, offering tools to break free from patterns of stress and overwhelm. By developing a mindful attitude, individuals can cultivate greater resilience, emotional balance, and a sense of inner peace, leading to an overall improvement in their well-being.

Mindfulness as a Jewish Spiritual Practice
Mindfulness aligns deeply with Jewish spiritual teachings, particularly those around kavanah (intention) and being present in the moment. In Judaism, we are taught to approach each moment with awareness and gratitude, whether in prayer, work, or daily life. Mindfulness meditation enhances this practice by helping individuals fully engage with their inner experience and the Divine presence in their lives. By bringing mindfulness to prayer, study, and ritual, we can deepen our connection to God and to our own spiritual journey, cultivating a sense of holiness in the everyday. This practice helps us to live more fully in the present moment, which is essential for spiritual growth and transformation.

Mindfulness as a Tool for Pastoral Care
As a rabbi, I incorporate mindfulness meditation into my pastoral care to offer a supportive, calming presence to those in need. Mindfulness creates a space for individuals to pause, reflect, and find clarity, especially during times of grief, stress, or uncertainty. By guiding others in mindfulness techniques, I help them reconnect with their inner peace and spiritual center. This practice can be an essential tool for navigating difficult emotions, fostering emotional healing, and providing comfort. Mindfulness also supports deep listening and empathy, allowing me to be fully present with those I serve. Through this practice, I hope to offer not only words of support but a sense of tranquility and a path toward healing on every level—physical, emotional, and spiritual.

Reiki and Energy Healing

Reiki is Holistic Spiritual Care

What is Reiki?
Reiki is a holistic healing practice that originated in Japan, using the body’s natural energy to promote balance and well-being. The word "Reiki" comes from two Japanese words: "Rei," meaning universal, and "Ki," meaning life force energy. As a Reiki practitioner, I channel this energy through my hands to help clear blockages, restore vitality, and encourage the body and mind to return to a state of balance. Reiki healing involves a practitioner channeling this universal life energy to help restore balance and harmony in the body, mind, and spirit. The practitioner does not use their own energy; instead, they act as a conduit, allowing the healing energy to flow through their hands and into the person receiving the treatment. This is typically done by gently placing hands on or just above the body, but the energy transfer can also occur from a distance.

The goal of Reiki is to help remove blockages in the flow of energy within the body, which may be causing physical, emotional, or spiritual discomfort. When energy flows freely, it promotes a state of well-being, relaxation, and healing. Many people report feeling deeply relaxed, calm, and centered after a Reiki session, and some experience a sense of emotional release or insight.

Please Click here for a brief video Explaining and Demonstrating Reiki Practice from Norton Healthcare Cancer Institute

How Reiki Can Help with Physical or Mental Health
Reiki is known for its ability to support physical healing and promote mental clarity. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, stress, anxiety, or emotional blockages, Reiki can be a deeply restorative practice. By gently guiding the flow of energy in the body, Reiki helps to reduce tension, calm the nervous system, and encourage the body’s natural healing processes. Many people experience a profound sense of relaxation, peace, and relief following a Reiki session, helping them cope with physical or emotional challenges in a gentle, non-invasive way.

Reiki as a Spiritual Practice
Beyond its healing properties, Reiki is also a powerful spiritual practice. It fosters a deeper connection to the Divine and the life force that flows through all of us. Reiki helps to clear spiritual blockages, deepen one’s sense of presence, and open the heart to healing and transformation. As a practice rooted in compassion and mindfulness, Reiki can create sacred space for reflection and spiritual growth, allowing individuals to reconnect with their inner selves and with the Divine energy that surrounds them.

Reiki as a Tool for Pastoral Care
As a rabbi, I integrate Reiki into my pastoral care practice to offer a holistic approach to healing. Reiki can be a deeply supportive tool for those who are struggling with grief, illness, or emotional distress. By providing gentle, flowing healing, I aim to bring comfort, peace, and a sense of connection to those in need. Reiki offers an opportunity for individuals to experience a calm, nurturing presence, promoting healing on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level. For me, it is a way to extend compassion and care beyond words, creating space for individuals to find healing, strength, and solace.

Rooted in the understanding that everything in the universe is interconnected through energy, Reiki offers a pathway to healing that aligns with core Jewish teachings about the sanctity of life, the soul, and the importance of holistic well-being.

A Holistic Approach to Healing

In Jewish tradition, healing is not merely the alleviation of physical ailments but also the restoration of balance to the body, mind, and spirit. The concept of refuah (healing) is often mentioned in prayers, such as the Mi Sheberach prayer, and is considered a divine blessing that encompasses both physical and emotional health. Reiki, which emphasizes the flow of healing energy to restore harmony and vitality, can be seen as a way to align with this divine healing process, allowing individuals to feel more balanced, centered, and connected to their true selves.

The Connection Between Reiki and the Soul

In Jewish mysticism, particularly within Kabbalah, there is a deep understanding of the soul’s journey and its connection to the divine. Just as the soul is considered an eternal spark of light, Reiki practitioners believe that life energy flows through all living beings, sustaining us and connecting us to the Source. The act of channeling Reiki energy can help remove blockages and allow this divine energy to flow freely, supporting spiritual growth and inner peace.

The Hebrew word ruach means spirit or breath, and it symbolizes the divine life force that animates all beings. This aligns closely with the concept of ki in Reiki, as both represent the vital energy that sustains us. Through Reiki, individuals can access this energy to clear emotional and spiritual blockages, facilitating a deeper connection with God or the universe and their own spiritual path.

Incorporating Reiki into Jewish Practices

Reiki can be seamlessly integrated into Jewish rituals and daily practices. Many people find that receiving Reiki before or after a Shabbat service, during a period of prayer, or in times of personal reflection enhances their spiritual experience. Reiki may also help bring clarity during moments of healing prayer or Torah study, creating a deeper sense of presence and mindfulness.

For some, Reiki can be a meditative practice that supports their connection to the divine during moments of prayer or hitbodedut (solitary meditation). The gentle, non-invasive nature of Reiki makes it a wonderful complement to Jewish mindfulness practices, offering a deeper sense of peace and rejuvenation.

In community settings, such as a synagogue, congregants can be invited to participate in Reiki sessions facilitated by a practitioner who can guide individuals to place their hands on different parts of their body in order to channel healing energy. An example: Using texts from Torah or liturgy around an idea such as not having fear or having hope, a practitioner can guide participants to place their hands on their abdomen, known as the area of emotional stability and security, and guide participants through channeling energy there—which can help to alleviate their sense of anxiety or worry during challenging times.

Reiki and the Concept of Tikkun (Repair)

The Jewish principles of Tikkun Olam—"repairing the world" and Tikkun Etzmi—”repair of the self” remind us that healing is not just a personal journey but a communal one. Reiki offers a way to heal not only the self but also the broader world by cultivating compassion, empathy, and kindness. As we work on healing ourselves through Reiki, we can also be more present and supportive of others, contributing to the collective well-being and the pursuit of peace and justice in the world.

Embracing Reiki with Jewish Values

While Reiki is not a traditional Jewish practice, its principles of energy healing resonate with core Jewish values, such as the sanctity of life, the importance of prayer and healing, and the belief that our connection to the divine is central to our well-being. By embracing Reiki as part of one's Jewish practice, individuals can enrich their spiritual journey, align with their soul's purpose, and cultivate a deeper sense of peace and connection with the divine energy that flows through all things.

Whether you are seeking physical healing, emotional clarity, or spiritual renewal, Reiki can be a transformative tool that supports your Jewish path, helping you to live a more balanced, mindful, and grounded life.