Hi, I’m Rabbi Sammy. I can’t wait to meet you!

Who am I?

I believe in a Judaism that is alive, creative, and is deeply grounded in tradition. As a queer man who is deeply observant in Jewish practice, I transcend denominational boundaries in an effort to create and seek dynamic, musical, and vibrant Jewish ritual for today’s seeker. I love taking part in the big moments of your life, working with you to create a meaningful, connected, yet traditionally-grounded ceremony. With a proven track-record of building 20s + 30s Jewish communities around the country, I am also available to consult on how to build younger, more vibrant Jewish communities!

Looking for an officiant? You’ve come to the right place. 

Weddings

When approaching a wedding ceremony, I work with you, the couple, to ensure you understand and connect with every part of the ceremony. Whether deeply traditional or created just for you, we will work together to design the rituals of the wedding day, write your own ketubah (wedding contract), and discuss what you want your life to look like together. I love working with LGBTQ+ and multi-heritage couples, and I’m open to travel!

Brit Ceremonies

Bringing a baby into the world is a symbol of hope that our world desperately needs it. We will work together to build a ceremony to name your child and welcome them into the covenant. I love working with any and all families!

When facing the loss of a loved one, Jewish ritual creates a powerful framework for saying goodbye and mourning. I will walk you through the process, building ritual that fits your needs, and walk beside you through this heartbreaking and challenging time.

Funeral

I draw deep inspiration from candidates seeking to become Jews by choice or patrilineal Jews looking to affirm their identity. Whether an adult, looking to study Judaism, or for a parents seeking a baby’s conversion, I would love to walk you through this life-changing ritual. I love working with all families, particularly queer families!

Conversions

Here’s what I have to say

With experience working at groundbreaking synagogues IKAR and B’nai Jeshurun in New York City, I’ve trained with Rabbis Sharon Brous, Roly Matalon, and Felicia Sol to deliver Torah from the heart that speaks to what we’re called to do in a given moment.

What people say about me

  • The wedding ceremony was everything we imagined and more! It was so special to build the ceremony with Rabbi Sammy, capturing all of our queer Jewish selves!

    Annie and Sarah, recently married

  • I am writing to commend you on your extraordinary sermon this morning. You moved fluidly from the personal, to the political, to the global -- building your message on a scaffolding of Torah and commentary. As an artist and visual person, I will long remember many of the images you conjured- especially that of the arteries leading to one heart. Just beautiful.

    Congregant from B’nai Jeshurun

  • Your work with Aviv has been so inspiring and it brings me such joy to see the future of BJ in the many young people you have brought to our community; I know that the seeds you planted will continue to flourish and grow.

    20s + 30s member at B’nai Jeshurun

Contact Me!

Interested in hearing more? Fill out some info and I will be in touch shortly. I am based in Cincinnati, Ohio, but I am open to travel! I can’t wait to hear from you!