This is the speech I gave at the Academy for Jewish Religion’s Service of Ordination and Graduation, held April 11, 2024 / 3 Nisan 5784 on the occasion of my ordination as Rabbi Cantor along with my five classmates, Rabbi Cantor Danielle J Bensimhon, Rabbi Pam Ehrenkranz, Rabbi Bena KaneGraber, Rabbi Scott Shalom Klein, and Rabbi Cantor Steven Jason Walvick in ceremonies held at Temple Beth Abraham, Tarrytown, New York.
Today is a doorway. This morning, I was a cantor. I step through this door–that one right there–and now I am a rabbi. But how did I get here?
I think of my family, then and now. They came from Uman, Odessa, and Belarus on my mother’s side, County Mayo, Belfast, and Lancashire on my father’s. I think of their faith, belief, and strength.
My late rabbi Eric Wisnia. The Wiz. Always called me Foxy. He taught me that rabbis are just people and you can argue with them. And I did! I think of his humility, erudition, and joy.
My dearest friend, composer Mark Dunn. He was a rock when all around me was sand. I cherish his legacy of transcendent music and prayer.
And dear Terry Teachout. You were right, Terry, I did it. I’m sure you’re in the next world kvelling and telling someone you told me so.
To my parents, Leslie and Gary, you supported me over these six years to bring me to this moment. I love you and thank you.
To my children, Annabel, Elizabeth, Emma – you were patient and understanding as I read and studied through your childhoods. My love for you is infinity. No. Infinity plus one.
To my congregation, you were the place where my learning here became teaching. I would not be here today without you.
To my classmates, this journey together has been an honor. And Jon Mitzmacher and Shalom Klein, thank you for your infinite patience and wisdom.
We have begun the month of Nisan, a month of miracles, but also liberation, freedom, and transition. From narrow places, the way opens. Seas part. We grab our tambourines and dance.
Today, I am a rabbi. We. We are rabbis. A wonderful moment…and a great responsibility. Teaching, listening, learning, and serving. With a humble heart, I take my place in the shalshelet hakabbalah – the chain of tradition. We are, all of us, linked in this chain.
Truly, this is the day that the Lord has made, let us be glad and rejoice.
