Rabbinic Reflection: Rabbi Taylor Baruchel

Inspirations & Installations

One of the most profound lessons I’ve gleaned from my beloved teacher, Rabbi Dvora Weisberg, is the transformative power of putting faith in people. As the head of the rabbinical school at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, Rabbi Weisberg has dedicated her life to shaping future generations of rabbis and educators. Her unwavering faith in her students, including myself, is a testament to her remarkable character. She has not only instilled in us a deep passion for academic inquiry but also exemplified radical compassion, empowering us to serve the Jewish People with authenticity and devotion. 

Rabbi Weisberg’s belief in my potential has been instrumental in my ability to serve our community at Holy Blossom. In times when it’s been challenging to find reasons to smile, especially in the face of heart-wrenching stories from Israel, I often return to the sound pastoral advice she gave me:  “It’s okay not to be okay.”  In fact, it is important to acknowledge when we aren’t okay and honour the emotional space that entails. Nevertheless, we naturally seek bright spots and sources of solace. For me, one of the most sustaining sources of comfort has been uniting with my Holy Blossom community. Whether it’s through prayer, study, or simply coming together, “doing Jewish” with my fellow community members feels not only comforting but also essential, especially in these trying times. 

It is with immense pride and gratitude, that I look forward to my installation at Holy Blossom Temple this upcoming Shabbat, November 3 and 4 where I have the great honour of introducing my beloved teacher, Rabbi Dvora Weisberg, to our incredible community. In my short time at Holy Blossom, I have often heard our members comment on what an enthusiastic presence I am; The simple truth is it is easy to serve our community with great joy and energy because I love this place. I love our people. However, the boundless energy and enthusiasm I have for Torah is directly pulled from my time studying with Rabbi Weisberg and the faith she placed in me. 

Whether joining us for Kabbalat Shabbat and dinner, at Saturday morning Torah study, or for the special YAD: Next Gen Havdalah Saturday night, I do hope you will take the opportunity to come be inspired by her, too! 

Details for Rabbi Baruchel’s installation can be found HERE. 

For the YAD: Next Gen Havdalah please click HERE.