Rabbi David J. Gelfand
212.249.5003
rabbistudy to templeisraelnyc period org
...a gifted teacher, caring counselor and eloquent preacher has inspired a renaissance of creative and dynamic Jewish living for his congregant families and yet open to the wider public as over 300 new families have recently followed this passionate leader and been touched by him, especially through his inspiring teaching of Jewish values and tradition and as a rabbi who's door is always open. He arrived at Temple Israel, one of NYC's historic synagogues, in June, 2007.
He is known for having created cutting-edge models for synagogue life based on pluralism, inclusivity, social justice, outreach, excellence in education for all ages and stimulating a vibrant spiritual and cultural life for all. David also uses his love of k'lal Yisrael and travel with his congregants in having taken over 1,000 to Israel and also led multiple Jewish heritage trips to Eastern Europe, Cuba, Spain/Morocco, Argentina, Chile and Brazil.
Previously he was Rabbi of The Jewish Center of the Hamptons where he initiated the highly acclaimed “Hamptons Jewish Summer Institute,” a unique, creative forum for Jewish learning, spirituality and culture. Having begun his career at Temple Beth-El in Great Neck, NY, he also served synagogues in New Jersey and Ohio. Presently he serves as national Vice-President of The Interfaith Alliance Foundation and the President of the Interfaith Alliance, Washington, DC, the largest interfaith organization in the USA, promoting dialogue and civility. He also is a member of the board of AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) and has been active in a number of Zionist & Israeli organizations and institutions.
Rabbi Gelfand has been an outspoken prophetic voice of social conscience, activist and vigilant in the cause of human rights, social justice, interfaith relations, outreach and inclusion and has been so recognized in the communities he has served and internationally by the WUPJ with their “International Award for Outstanding Accomplishments in Pursuit of Justice.” He currently serves on the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion's Board of Governors and on their President's Rabbinic Council, as well as North American Vice-President of the WUPJ, Vice-Chair of their Rabbinic Council and a member of their International Assembly.
He and his wife, Kathy, a gifted stylist and jewelry designer, and their four children reside in NYC & East Hampton. Devoted foremost to family, David enjoys travel, cooking, culture and nature.
