Overview
Kerhonkson Synagogue, an unaffiliated congregation in the foothills of New York’s Catskills, seeks a part-time spiritual leader to guide our community in monthly Shabbat services, seasonal Kabbalat Shabbats, High Holiday services, and other celebrations throughout the year. We welcome a leader who embraces our diversity of Jewish backgrounds and can balance tradition with an expansive approach to Torah study and worship. The ideal candidate will be a knowledgeable, compassionate individual—teacher, spiritual adviser, and community partner—who can build on our recent momentum and help shape a vibrant future for our congregation.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Conduct one monthly Shabbat morning service, including Torah chanting and discussion
- Conduct one monthly Kabbalat Shabbat service between the months of May and August
- Conduct High Holiday services
- Act as guide in matters of halacha
- Be available to members regarding personal issues when they seek advice
- Work with the Board and Ritual Committee to identify and develop policies and practices to meet the needs of the congregation
- Work collaboratively with the Board to find creative ways to identify and recruit potential members
Kerhonkson Synagogue, an egalitarian congregation in New York’s beautiful Hudson Valley, is seeking a part-time spiritual leader to succeed our current rabbi, who is retiring after 14 years in the position.
At 103 years old, Kerhonkson Synagogue is a congregation with deep roots in the local community. Founded by Jewish farmers in the early years of the 20th century, it remains a vibrant and active congregation, serving more than 80 member families from Kerhonkson and surrounding areas. Our members span the full range of Jewish experiences and backgrounds, and our participatory services incorporate elements of Reform, Conservative, and Renewal practice. We currently hold services one Shabbat morning per month in our historic sanctuary, which was built in 1922 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition, we hold outdoor Kabbalat Shabbat services one Friday night per month from May through August and offer Zoom-only learning sessions at various times throughout the year. We also gather for High Holy Day services, when our open-door policy attracts attendees from the local area and beyond.
In addition to our sanctuary, we also have an adjacent Jewish Center building that is used for kiddush after services, holiday celebrations, and community events. A large and active group of local seniors also meets there weekly.
- Ordained rabbi or cantor, rabbinical or cantorial student pursuing ordination, or experienced lay leader
- Ability to be on-site for services, celebrations, lifecycle events, and other events that require a physical presence
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Innovative spirit and ability to understand and reflect our congregational values: inclusive, egalitarian, friendly, and participatory
- Skill and experience with pastoral care
- Adult Jewish educational experience highly desired
- Musical ability a plus
- Comfort with basic technology, such as Zoom, social media platforms, and other online resources
Position start date: July 1, 2026 (or sooner by mutual agreement) Flexible schedule as needed
Additional benefits will be negotiated on an individual basis.
Submit resume and cover letter to: kerhonksonsynagogue@gmail.com
Website: kerhonksonsynagogue.org
Along with your resume and three professional references, interested applicants are invited to submit any examples of your online presence, such as YouTube or Zoom recordings of Shabbat services or adult learning sessions. Initial round interviews will be conducted remotely via Zoom. Final round candidates will be expected to conduct a Shabbat service in person with our congregation.
About Kerhonkson Synagogue
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