Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC) celebrated the ordination of six new Israeli Reform rabbis at its Academic Graduation ceremony held at the Taube Family Campus in Jerusalem on Friday.
The event marked a milestone in the continued growth of the Progressive Jewish movement in Israel, with the new cohort joining a significant network of spiritual leaders across the country.
As the event took place, President Andrew Rehfeld, Ph.D., and Taube Family Campus Dean Nachman Shai presided over the ceremony.
In addition, Director of HUC’s Israel Rabbinical Program, Rabbi Talia Avnon-Benveniste, formally ordained the six new rabbis: Zehavit Kalif, Maayan Morag, Ph.D., Yael Schweid, Adi Segal, Dganit Timor Jenshil, and Shirley Zfat Davidai.
The ordination of these six leaders brings the total number of IRP alumni to 142, who now serve over 50 Reform/Progressive congregations, institutions, and communities throughout Israel.
Recognition through public service
The ceremony also recognized them for outstanding public service. Justice (Ret.) Esther Hayut, Former President of the Supreme Court of Israel, was formally honored for her distinguished leadership and service to the country.
The event highlighted the high caliber of the graduating class, noting that two of the ordinees, Dr. Maayan Morag and Yael Schweid, are Golden Hanassi Fellows.
This prestigious fellowship program provides IRP students with immersive residencies in North American Reform congregations, fostering cross-cultural understanding and strengthening global Jewish ties.