Dear TRS Community,
Chazak, Chazak, V’nitchazek, from strength to strength, may we be strengthened!
These words from our tradition, typically read as we conclude one book of Torah and begin reading the next, remind us that moments of transition are also opportunities to honor our past, celebrate our strengths and embrace the future together.
As we prepare for Senior Cantor Michael Shochet’s retirement on June 30, 2028, we are entering an important new chapter in Temple Rodef Shalom’s history. For nearly 30 years, Cantor Shochet has helped shape the musical and spiritual life of our congregation, creating a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. We look forward to celebrating his extraordinary contributions as he prepares to become TRS’s first Cantor Emeritus.
At the same time, we are beginning the thoughtful work of preparing for the next chapter of cantorial leadership at TRS. We are pleased to announce two committees that will help guide us from Strength to Strength.
Throughout this journey, we’ll keep you informed with monthly emails sharing updates on the search process, important developments and news. We’ll also share regular updates in our Thursday e-letters. Please consider visiting and bookmarking our webpage for updates as well.
From Strength to Strength Webpage
Chaired by past president Lynne Lotenberg, the Transition Committee will help guide our congregation through this meaningful period of change. Its work will include celebrating Cantor Shochet’s remarkable legacy (led by Dennis Rabinovitz and Barbara Moss) and helping our community prepare for the transition ahead.
Chaired by past president Jen Jacobsen, the Senior Cantor Search Committee will lead the process of identifying our next senior cantor. Building on the strong musical and spiritual foundation Cantor Shochet has established, the committee will seek a leader who will help carry our sacred community into its next chapter. I’m very thankful for the committee members, representing diverse perspectives across our congregation, who have committed to this critical work:
Please visit our Strength to Strength website in the coming days to learn more about these members, who represent a meaningful cross-section of our community. We are grateful to each of them for their service.
As we move from strength to strength, an essential part of the process will be hearing from you, our community. The Transition Committee will be hosting a series of Town Hall conversations for you to share your perspectives, hopes and aspirations for cantorial leadership at TRS. You are invited to register.
Upcoming Town Hall Meetings
Members are invited to participate in one session. Each session will be held at the temple, will have the same format and will be facilitated in small groups by trained members of our congregation.
Additional opportunities for congregational input will be announced as the search progresses.
This transition is both a celebration of all that Cantor Shochet has given our congregation and an opportunity to envision what comes next. The music, relationships and traditions he has nurtured will remain an enduring part of who we are.
We look forward to honoring his 30 years of extraordinary leadership, welcoming your participation in the search process and moving together from strength to strength.
Warmly,
TRS President Jeffrey Levy
