Overview
About Congregation Keneseth Israel
In existence for over 110 years, Keneseth Israel is a vibrant and inclusive Reform congregation of over 300 families located in Allentown, PA. We pride ourselves on our warm, welcoming, caring and multi-generational community where congregants can experience and express their Judaism in numerous ways: at spiritual, educational and community gatherings. Among our strengths: our educational programs, youth involvement, music, social action, and interfaith relations and study. These are traditions that continue to shape Keneseth Israel. http://www.kilv.org
Beyond our walls, Keneseth Israel is an integral member of the larger diverse Allentown religious community, leading the way for increased involvement and community interaction. Within our walls, we have a highly collaborative and healthy relationship between the Board, the Rabbi, our educators and staff. Our lay leadership is committed to our members and provides solid financial management.
About the opportunity:
We are seeking a musically talented full or part time Clergy/Jewish Life Educator (ordained Rabbis or Cantors are preferred and welcome to apply) to join the KI family and partner with our flexible and innovative Rabbi to further enhance congregational life across the spectrum including worship experiences, creating meaningful relationships with our congregants, providing educational opportunities for children and adults, and expanding our presence in the broader Jewish and Allentown communities.
A new member of the clergy will be comfortable with and have knowledge of the Reform movement and will support all aspects of congregational life including but not limited to: education, life cycle functions, and special events.
Specifically, we are seeking a candidate who is musically talented, knowledgeable and enthusiastic to share all congregational/clergy responsibilities with the Rabbi including, but not limited to:
• Provide a Jewish musical presence on the Bimah and in our religious school through collaboration with our music director, professional and congregational choir
• Officiate at life cycle functions
• Provide pastoral care for congregants
• Participate in community events
• Adult education as well as participation in hands-on B’nei Mitzvah training
About the Jewish Community:
The Jewish community in the Lehigh Valley is vibrant and built around a host of diverse opportunities for involvement. The region includes 10 synagogues of all denominations, a community Mikvah, Jewish education and childcare from six weeks through 8th grade, a Jewish newspaper, supportive community and a variety of philanthropic and volunteer opportunities.
About Lehigh Valley, Pa.
Set amid gentle hills and charming country sides, Lehigh Valley, Pa. is home to Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton, as well as dozens of small towns and picturesque boroughs. In 2015 Fortune Magazine, one of the top business magazines in the country, identified Allentown as one of the top five cities with resurgent, “up-and-coming” downtown neighborhoods.
The region is steeped in pre-Colonial, Early American and industrial history. Lehigh Valley has an impressive range of tourist attractions including nationally-recognized events like Musikfest, wineries and breweries, the Lehigh Valley Zoo, outdoor activities, world-class sporting events, 10 colleges and universities, and is home to America’s favorite brands such as Crayola®, Peeps, Mike & Ike®, Martin Guitars and Mack Trucks. The region offers a diverse array of memorable things to do and plenty of dining options to fit every budget and taste. And, it’s easy to get to and around. Lehigh Valley is located approximately 60 minutes north of Philadelphia and 90 minutes west of New York City by car.
An ideal candidate:
The ideal candidate will be seeking a congregational home, have strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate with all congregants (youngest to oldest), have musical ability, an energetic spirit, personal warmth and a true love of Judaism. Additionally, the ideal candidate will interact warmly with young people and be able to engage them to find meaning in their Judaism. We expect this newest member of our KI family to be involved in all aspects of synagogue life as well as the greater community. And most importantly, the ideal candidate will work collaboratively with the Rabbi and the Board of Trustees.
Congregational experience preferred. Recent graduates invited to apply. Salary, negotiable based on experience.
Position begins July 1, 2017; applications and letters of interest accepted immediately.
kiclergysearch@gmail.com