Dr. Lawrence A. Hoffman was ordained as a rabbi in 1969, received his Ph. D. in 1973, and has taught since then at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York. From 1984 to 1987, he directed its School of Sacred Music as well. In 2003, he was named the first Barbara and Stephen Friedman Professor of Liturgy, Worship and Ritual. He teaches classes in liturgy, ritual, spirituality, theology and synagogue leadership. For almost forty years, he has combined research, teaching, and a passion for the spiritual renewal of North American Judaism. 

Topic: Eco Villages and Kibbutz Lotan's Role in the Global Eco Village Network

Alex is co-founder of our sister community Kibbutz Lotan in Israel, a product of Community Synagogue of Rye and representative of the Association of Reform Zionists of America (ARZA).

Map of Kibbutz Lotan: https://goo.gl/maps/xnHJm3Ye8eQjEM5f6

Topic: "The God Upgrade: Finding Your 21st Century Spirituality in Judaism's 5,000-year-old Tradition."

Rabbi Jamie Korngold, founder and lead guide of The Adventure Rabbi Program, combines Jewish teachings with nature. Her nature-based approach helps make Judaism relevant and meaningful, while bridging the gap between scientific thought and religion.

Rabbi Korngold is an athlete and scholar, as well as an innovative author of 10 literary works, six of which are geared for children.