It is with great joy that we share the welcome news that Rabbi Scott Perlo is our Rabbi at Adat Shalom Reconstructionist Congregation starting August 1!
A rabbinic search is one of the most important and sacred responsibilities of a community and with thanks to so many, it has been beautifully fulfilled.
Rabbi Scott’s warmth, his wisdom and Jewish learning, his attentive ear to people and the needs of the world around us, and his deep well of humanity are among the wonderful qualities he will bring to our community.
There is so much to come, starting with . . .
This webpage will be kept up-to-date with news about Rabbi Scott and his arrival in our community. We cannot wait to welcome him, Yael, and family to our Adat Shalom family!
Dear Adat Shalom,
Shortly before Shabbat I was informed that you had called me to your pulpit as your next rabbi. Yael and I are so moved by your graciousness. We’re returning to DC with joy in our hearts to be in community with you.
What popped into my head when I got the news was the meaning of the word “rabbi.” Some people know that it comes from the word rav, which means “great” or “much.” The ending is possessive: so rabbi means “my great one.”
Plenty of people (and not a few rabbis) have made the mistake of thinking this means the necessary elevation of a spiritual leader over their congregants. I think that misses the beauty of what it means to be a rabbi.
In the Torah, in the Book of Genesis, Jacob and Esav are reconciling, and Jacob is plying his brother with gifts. It’s so over the top that his brother has to ask him to stop. Esav says, yesh li rav, achi – I have so much, my brother.
It’s the same word there, rav, and that’s how I feel in this moment. I have so much, and it’s due to you. Thank you, Adat Shalom. Shabbat Shalom now, and for many, many to come.
Rabbi Scott
Sermons:
ELI Talk:
My Jewish Learning
The Washington Post
Copyright © 2024 Adat Shalom Reconstructionist Congregation. All rights reserved.