Rabbi Gropper's Sabbatical Leave January-March 2026

Your Questions Answered

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What is a sabbatical?

The word "sabbatical" comes from the biblical concept of Shabbat—"to rest" or "to cease." A sabbatical is a sacred pause, a time for a rabbi to step back from daily responsibilities to rest, study, reflect, and travel so they can return to the congregation renewed in body, mind, and spirit.

Rabbi Gropper's agreement with CSR includes sabbatical time to support his long-term service to our community. This sabbatical is part of his 2026 allocation, allowing him to return to us refreshed and inspired.

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Do other clergy take sabbaticals?

Absolutely! Clergy of all faiths embrace sabbaticals as a healthy practice. The Reform movement calls this a b'rit kodesh, or "sacred partnership"—recognizing that when clergy have time to renew themselves, both clergy and congregations thrive together, moving from strength to strength rather than toward burnout. Cantor Cooperman has similar provisions in her agreement with CSR and took her most recent three-month sabbatical earlier this year.

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What will Rabbi Gropper be doing during his sabbatical?

Rabbi Gropper will spend some time fulfilling some long-held dreams: skiing in Europe, researching his family roots in Romania, spending significant time in Israel visiting Eli as he completes his military training, and making progress on a book called “Judaism in 21 Seconds a Day.” Most importantly, he is looking forward to stepping back from day-to-day synagogue life so he can return with fresh perspectives, new scholarship, and renewed energy for the work we share.

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Who will serve the congregation during Rabbi Gropper's sabbatical?

Our incredible professional staff will continue serving you with the same dedication and care they always provide. Rabbi Gropper has prepared a detailed sabbatical guide for the staff and synagogue leadership, and we are confident that all pastoral and programming needs will be beautifully met.

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What if I have a personal or family crisis?

Please call the synagogue at 914-967-6262. Our office staff will connect you with the right person and reach Cantor Cooperman when needed. We ask that you not call or text Rabbi Gropper on his cell phone during this time, even though many of you have his number. This allows him to truly rest and recharge so he can return ready to serve you even better.

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Will Rabbi Gropper be in touch with us during his sabbatical?

Generally, no—and that's by design. An important part of sabbatical is for the rabbi to redirect his attention elsewhere so he can return with fresh energy and clarity. Staying connected to day-to-day life at CSR would defeat the purpose of this restorative time.

 

Will Rabbi Gropper be in contact with Glynis Conyer, Cantor Cooperman, or Michael Foreman during his sabbatical?

Yes. He will check in with them periodically, just to stay connected. Rabbi Gropper also plans to write the Shabbat message once a month to share a little about his experiences. He has asked to be contacted only for significant illnesses, deaths in the congregation, or matters requiring his immediate attention upon return.

 

Will Rabbi Gropper be reading email during his sabbatical?

No—even rabbis need a sabbatical from email! His email account (dgropper@comsynrye.org) will not be monitored by him from January 8 to April 9. Our clergy assistant Jon Rekedal will review emails and forward them appropriately or archive them as needed.

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Who can I talk to if I have questions about the sabbatical?

Feel free to reach out to Rabbi Gropper before he leaves, or to Temple President Michael Foreman, Cantor Cooperman, or Executive Director Glynis Conyer. We are here to support you and to answer your questions during this time.