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Community BlogIlluminating Jewish Life Across the Generations

“The Rabbinical School of Hebrew College was a wonderful place. It allowed me to unpack a Judaism that was my own. There was a space specifically created to discover Judaism as a tool to lead a meaningful life, to discover the Judaism I wanted to live and create it in the world. “ — Rabbi Philip Sherman
Whether Rabbi Philip Sherman, Rab`13,  is sitting on the floor shaking a lulav with an exuberant pre-schooler or working with an adult learner to breathe new life into an ancient text, his rabbinate at Temple Beth Elohim (TBE) in Wellesley, Mass.is animated by his joyful presence and deep desire to create meaningful experiences across the generations.

“Rabbi Sherman emphasizes the importance of creating events with meaning,” explains Polly Hirsch, co-chair of Yaldeinu, TBE’s families with young children community.  “His presence
has been very welcoming and comforting for our family. As a result, we are much more involved in the TBE community. We gravitate to the families with young children’s experiences because he has made them such a comfortable place for our family. “  

Since he was a child, Rabbi Sherman has felt comfortable within Jewish community. His connection to Jewish life was warmly shaped by his grandfather, who was a spiritual leader in a small town in Iowa and often invited his grandson join him on the bima. He has been on a mission to share that connection with others ever since. “It is a blessing for me to be present with seekers as we learn together how to live a life of purpose and meaning through the lens of Judaism,” explains Rabbi Sherman.

“Rabbi Sherman has a real love for our traditions.  He brings both a joyful and serious feeling to Torah study, prayer, and song. He offers such a depth of spirituality and caring engagement  with us and in tikkun olam that I am moved emotionally by his leadership. “  
— Marsha Mirkin, TBE adult learner

When Rabbi Sherman is asked his hopes for his rabbinate a decade from now, his answer is simple. “I want to have taught children and adults that Judaism has tools and language that will help us make the world better place.”