Rabbi Knopf's Blog

A note from Rabbi Knopf

Dear friends,

I am writing to share some exciting news with you: This fall, I will begin Leadership Metro Richmond (LMR)'s Leadership Quest! It you are unfamiliar with LMR, it is a prestigious and selective leadership development organization that connects and educates diverse groups of community leaders, inspiring them to serve the greater Richmond region. 

Leadership Quest is a year-long program that includes formal leadership training with access to high-impact local/regional decision-makers. The objective is to develop leaders who make a positive and lasting impact in the greater Richmond Region. Those who complete the program graduate into LMR's extensive alumni network with further opportunities for making a difference in our region.

I am participating in LMR's program because it will help us further our shared vision of making Temple Beth-El a leading voice for a more just, compassionate, and peaceful Richmond. It elevates our congregation's stature in the broader community, especially since I will be the first rabbi ever to participate in the program (so I've been told). I am also confident that the connections I make and the relationships I form will benefit our congregation in myriad unknowable ways. 

Participating in Leadership Quest will require a modest time-commitment, similar to other professional development programs in which I've participated over recent years. I will be away two weekends - one in September and one in January - for retreats, I will attend a class one Wednesday per month, and I will participate in a few other activities/projects throughout the year. I do not anticipate LMR interfering with my Temple or family responsibilities, which remain my highest obligations. I pledge always to keep my priorities straight. Learning is an essential part of my rabbinate, but I know that first things must remain first.

I hope you share my excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead for our congregation as I begin this program. If you have any questions whatsoever, please do not hesitate to be in touch with me. I also know some members of our congregation have already participated in LMR. If you are one of them, please let me know! I'd love to hear about your experience and stay connected as the year progresses.

I look forward to sharing with you regularly about what I'm learning, and building upon our sacred work together.

Warmly,
Rabbi Knopf

Temple Beth-El
3330 Grove Avenue
Richmond, VA 23221

{{shulcloud_footer_left}}

{{shulcloud_footer_right}}