Rabbi Job Description
Rabbinic couple
Maroubra Synagogue is seeking a dynamic and experienced Rabbinic couple to lead our vibrant Modern Orthodox and Zionistic community located in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, Australia.
Maroubra is a welcoming and inclusive community with approximately 350 member families who come from diverse backgrounds and levels of observance. With many younger families moving to the area, there is enormous potential for communal growth both in size and spiritual connection, requiring motivated Rabbinic direction at its forefront.
The congregation is looking for a Modern Orthodox Rabbi and Rebbetzin team who will provide spiritual leadership to our community and can connect with members of all backgrounds and at all stages of life. The successful team must be willing to become an integral part of the community and dedicate themselves to the challenge of meeting the congregation’s spiritual and intellectual needs.
The ideal couple will have post-ordination experience in a leadership capacity within a synagogue and a proven ability to attract and build strong, enduring relationships with members. In particular, you must have a caring, open and accepting personality, an engaging sense of humour and a warm communication style.
The Rabbi will also hold the position of College Rabbi at Mount Sinai College (ages 2 to 12), which neighbours the synagogue. This role is to contribute to and maintain the Jewish ethos of the College and the close and long-standing relationship that exists between the Synagogue and school.
The Rabbi and Rebbetzin need to:
• Be role models for Torah values and live a Torah life
• Provide positive and inclusive leadership for the community
• Provide a warm, inclusive and open home
• Motivate and inspire all groups to become more involved with their religion and community
• Provide and coordinate education for the community
Leining is also an essential part of the role.
As a Rabbi there are some things I get asked regularly, from how to be Kosher, to what do I do to prepare for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah to other questions about morality and issues of social interest. I also get asked for recommendations to various other services, ranging from Kosher caterers to support services. You can view my top tips and picks here, or send me a question to answer.
Guidance and Education through Lifecycle Events
I consider it as imperative to offer guidance and support, not only during times of celebration and joy but also during times of sadness and distress. We offer a number of educational programs to prepare those going through the various life cycle changes and provide ongoing care and assistance.
Pastoral Care (School + Air Force + Other)
In my role as Synagogue and College Rabbi as well as Military Chaplain (RAAF), I regularly make contact with and reach out to those who may be in need of spiritual or pastoral support. I visit the sick and elderly and also provide guidance or a ‘listening ear’ on a range of matters, from spiritual queries about faith and study to practical issues such as relationships and counseling.
Thoughts
Maroubra Shul is not just a place of prayer. It is a communal centre that offers something meaningful and engaging for those of all ages and observance levels. Inside of our walls people gather to celebrate and to mourn. We come together to learn and to know, to live and to grow. I see our Shul as that hub of Jewish life – that home – where every Jewish person can enter and feel welcomed and connected to their people and its history.