Avi Rosenfeld tells us about his Jewish journey beginning with a childhood in a family of “Western wandering Jews” raised secularly, to becoming an Orthodox rabbi and hospice chaplain. He grew up in several places in the Western United States inspired in his Jewish identity by his grandparents, but at the same time not being part of a synagogue community. He became more interested in Judaism after taking a class in conceptual physics in community college, reading “The Dancing Wu Li Masters”, and getting the impression that Judaism might give him more insight into the connection between physics and spirituality. With a newfound wanderlust after a trip to Mexico and Guatemala, but still holding a “religion is the opiate of the masses” attitude, Avi traveled to Israel to learn about his family history and Jewish identity. Once in Israel he was hooked by prayer, learning, and community. After a brief stint at home, he returned to Israel to learn at Yeshivat Bat Ayin, married, and welcomed his first child. Back in the US, Avi finished his BA and decided to pursue ordination at Yeshivat Chovevei Torah, and found his calling in chaplaincy. He also speaks about how being a chaplain has deeply informed his leadership of Mercaz Seattle (a modern orthodox congregation), and his finding joy in Judaism is a message he hopes to bring to his congregation. The interview closes with a niggun that goes back to the Breslev Chasidim: “B’Motzei Yom Menucha”, and a shout out to the Niggun Collective which is a niggun singing group started in the pub of Limmud Seattle 2019. Interview by Daniel Zana.

Avi Rosenfeld -- Finding Jewish Identity in Joy and Listening

Limmud Seattle is a festival of Jewish culture, creativity, and learning where people of all levels of knowledge and participation can learn and share ideas. The podcast features intimate interviews with its presenters.

Avi Rosenfeld -- Finding Jewish Identity in Joy and Listening

The Seattle Limmudcast