Shir Ami Welcomes New Rabbi: A Glimpse into the Future

Shir Ami welcomes Rabbi Joel Simon as Senior Rabbi on July 1, 2015. Rabbi Simon, who came from Schaarai Zedek in Tampa Florida, where he was the assistant rabbi since his ordination in 2007, plans to build on the vibrant community that is Shir Ami. He and his wife, Jacent, left the loving community where they had friends and people who felt like family for an opportunity to make Shir Ami feel like their new second home, among a congregation he believes will start to feel like family to them as well. Rabbi Simon says that, “we want to make sure that everything that we do remains the Shir Ami that so many people love and are comfortable with. At the same time, we can challenge ourselves to be a place that’s going to invite that next generation.”

With a baby on the way, Rabbi Joel and Jacent Simon are in a unique position to grow with the synagogue, bringing the next generation with them. When he was at Schaarai Zedek, Rabbi Simon did a lot of work with the 20s/30 age group, really reaching out to the young adult community. “Our preschool and religious schools have so much going on for young families. That’s why I moved here. This is the kind of synagogue I wanted my family to be part of.” And if his reputation at Schaarai Zedek is any indication, Rabbi Simon will be equally committed to all members of Shir Ami and looks forward to be part of the community for a long time to come. As a senior congregant wrote in honor of Rabbi Simon’s farewell, “While this is so bittersweet for our family, we are so thrilled for you and Jacent! [Shir Ami] is lucky to have you.” We think so too!

Want to learn more about what Shir Ami has to offer? Call Jodi Friedman, Shir Ami Membership, Coordinator, at 215-968-3400.