Temple Beth Sholom of Orange County has named Rabbi Sharon L. Sobel its new senior rabbi.
Rabbi Sobel is a second-generation Reform rabbi who grew up with the synagogue as her second home. Her parents and grandparents were ardent Zionists and instilled within her a strong sense of ahavat Yisrael – love of Israel. Their passion and commitment for Judaism, Israel and the larger Jewish community inspired her to study for the rabbinate and pursue a career as a Jewish communal professional.
She comes to Temple Beth Sholom in Santa Ana with more than 30 years in the rabbinate, working with congregations both large and small. She has served both as a congregational rabbi, and also for the broader Reform movement as the head of the Union for Reform Judaism in Canada.
What excites you about becoming the spiritual leader of Temple Beth Sholom?
Temple Beth Sholom is a dynamic and exciting community, with so much potential for growth. There’s a healthy mix of demographics. I’m so impressed with the warmth and connection that congregants have to one another and to the temple. Events are creative and well attended. The thriving early childhood education program is wonderful with an outstanding staff.
What will be your top priorities in the first year?
First and foremost, I want to get to know the community, to meet with congregants and staff, listen to their stories, hear what is important for them. In order to create a shared vision, I first need to spend time doing some deep listening. At the same time, it means continuing the wonderful worship, educational, social and other programs that have made Temple Beth Sholom so special and unique over the years.
What made you want to become a rabbi?
Originally, I planned to study medicine. Once I decided that was no longer the path I wanted to pursue, I realized that living a life dedicated to others through the lens of Judaism would be deeply meaningful and something that spoke to my heart and soul.
How would you describe your rabbinic style?
It’s not necessarily a matter of style, but I will say that a critical aspect of my role is to nurture community-building and enable strong, healthy relationships to thrive and grow. My goal is to make sure that people feel their voices are heard and their presence matters, so that the community is richer, healthier and stronger for their participation.
What do you believe needs to be done to make temple life more relevant and attractive to unaffiliated Jews?
That’s a big question. I’m very clear that we can’t simply repeat age-old models. We need to pay attention to what’s going on in the world and meet with people “where they are” emotionally. That may mean holding events in alternate settings, making sure programs are stimulating, yet true to our mission. We need to not only open our doors wide and hope people will join us, but also to actively seek ways to engage others, develop relationships and invite them to help plan programs that may be of meaning and value.
Tell us about what else you hope to achieve in Jewish Orange County.
I’m looking forward to meeting my colleagues and partners in Jewish OC, and to connecting with my interfaith colleagues as well. I love being involved in the community and believe it’s important that we partner to make changes to better our world.
For more information about Rabbi Sharon Sobel and Temple Beth Sholom, in Santa Ana, please visit tbsoc.com.
Jeff Merkow is a contributing writer to Jlife magazine.