Stacy Lang, Rabbi Benjamin Shull, Cantor Rochelle Helzner, and Robert Agus after the Installation of Rabbi Benjamin Shull at Tikvat Israel. (Photo by Larry M. Levine)
It was a joyful occasion at Tikvat Israel on Sunday (Nov. 1). In the presence of about 240 congregants and guests from the political and spiritual arenas, Rabbi Benjamin Shull was formally installed by the congregation. Opening remarks were given by Melanie Grishman, synagogue president, and the rabbi search committee was recognized for many hours devoted to finding a rabbi that would fit with our philosophy and culture. In addition to speeches and prayers, the installation was sprinkled with music by Eine Kleine Tikva Klezmer Band, the students of Atid Learning Center, Chai Dynamics and Cantor Rochelle Helzner. TI’s own Paul Grayson composed a special poem for the occasion.
Rabbi Shull’s friend and colleague, Rabbi David Bockman of New Jersey, gave a d’var torah. Rabbi Shull expressed his gratitude for his family, friends and his new community.
The program of the installation can be found here.
