Congregation B’nai Israel Announces New Leaders

Congregation B’nai Israel, in Basking Ridge, is delighted to welcome two new leaders to its community; both bring diverse backgrounds and an enthusiasm for sharing Judaism and Jewish learning with others!

Cantor Brian Kalver hopes that his music will “open hearts to experiencing the beauty, spirituality and joy of participating in congregational prayer and celebration.” Cantor Kalver leads services (with Rabbi John Schechter), teaches adults and children, and provides pastoral counseling.

He was ordained as a Cantor by the Academy for Jewish Religion in May 2016, after a twenty year career in corporate law. Cantor Kalver has pursued his love of Jewish music throughout his life and currently sings with three local Jewish choirs in addition to serving on the Board of Directors of the nationally and internationally known, Zamir Choral Foundation. Cantor Kalver lives in Morristown with his wife, Susan Ochs, and teenage children.

Glenn Wechsler has also joined Congregation B’nai Israel this year, as Director of its Religious School. Mr. Wechsler’s enthusiasm and child-centered approach to Jewish education creates a fun and enriching learning environment during the congregation’s Sunday morning program for 1st-7th grade. He is a strong believer that "only learning that is enjoyed is learned well."

Mr. Wechsler received his undergraduate degree, Masters in Social Work, and law degree from SUNY at Buffalo. He received a Masters in Jewish Education from the Jewish Theological Seminary. He has worked as the Youth and Camping Services Director at the JCC of Staten Island for the past fifteen years and has served as Principal of the Hebrew School at Arden Heights Boulevard Jewish Center for the past twelve years. Mr. Wechsler lives in North Brunswick with his wife, Melanie and their teenage sons.

Congregation B’nai Israel warmly welcomes community members to join them for
Friday evening services at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday morning services at 9:30 a.m.
Tot Shabbat for families with young children is scheduled the first Friday of
every month at 6:30 p.m. For more information about Congregation B’nai
Israel’s scheduled events go to: www.cbibr.org