Dear all,
My teacher, mentor, and friend, Rabbi Denise Eger is retiring from her position as Senior Rabbi of Congregation Kol Ami in West Hollywood. She was the founding rabbi of the synagogue 30 years ago. As as pioneer of “firsts,” Rabbi Eger’s legacy is nothing short of inspiring. She teaches by example how to mark a significant moment in time by action, prayer, and transformation. The following is a note I recently shared with her.
Ron and I are so very honored to celebrate you. We could not do what we do had you not done what you do.
Never for a second do we underestimate the battles you fought for the sake of LGBTQ+ equality.
Never for a second do we take for granted the freedoms we enjoy because of your tremendous voice.
In my early years as a rabbi, in those times when I was afraid to introduce Ron as my boyfriend, you stood as a pillar of inspiration.
When the CCAR convened in Greensboro in 2000 to make our statement on Same Gender Wedding officiation, you got on the phone to ensure that I would be there to vote, to mark my place in history. “Zach, you can’t sit this one out. Get yourself on a plane, even if you are just there for 2 hours.”
You celebrated multiple times with me at Temple Akiba.
You invited me to lead services at Kol Ami.
You inspired me to be courageous. You encouraged me to use my voice. And you reminded me how to balance what it means to both lead and serve a community.
To you and to Rabbi Eleanor Steinman (Rabbi’s Eger’s wife), may this next chapter be one of goodness, love, and life!
MAZAL TOV!!!
Rabbi Zach Shapiro
