By Peter Levinson
The Ruach Community is preparing to mark the Jewish High Holidays with a spirit of openness, renewal, and deep inspiration under the guidance of Rabbi Robin Damsky. Drawing on decades of experience, a passion for holistic well-being, and a thoughtful approach to spiritual leadership, Rabbi Damsky brings a fresh and heartfelt presence to Charlotte’ s Jewish community.
A Leader Rooted in Tradition and Innovation
Rabbi Robin Damsky’ s journey in Jewish leadership is as diverse as it is distinguished. Ordained at American Jewish University, she holds a master’ s degree in Jewish education from the Jewish Theological Seminary— two of the most respected institutions in Jewish scholarship. Her commitment to lifelong learning is further exemplified by her advanced studies with the Institute for Jewish Spirituality, where she continues to deepen her understanding of the sacred and the everyday.
However, what truly sets Rabbi Damsky apart is the way she harmonizes the ancient wisdom of Jewish texts with the realities of modern life.“ Our tradition is a living, breathing inheritance,” she says,“ and its teachings become all the more relevant when we bring them into dialogue with the world as it is.” This philosophy has become the cornerstone of her work as an educator, spiritual guide, and advocate for environmental awareness.
Limitless Judaism: Integrating Body, Spirit, and Earth
Rabbi Damsky’ s pioneering initiative, Limitless Judaism: Body-Spirit-Gaia, exemplifies her holistic vision. Founded out of a desire to expand the possibilities of Jewish practice, the program weaves together traditional learning, meditation, movement, and care for the earth. Participants are invited not only to study sacred texts but also to embody them through mindfulness, physical practice, and environmental stewardship.
Her approach is both timeless in origin and completely in the moment.“ We cannot separate our spiritual lives from our physical bodies or from the earth that sustains us,” Rabbi Damsky explains.“ Judaism has always recognized this truth, and now more than ever, we need to live it out in everything we do.” Through Limitless Judaism and
The Charlotte Jewish News- September 2025- Page 33
Rabbi Robin Damsky to Lead The Ruach Community in Transformative High Holy Day Services
her ongoing work with the Institute for Jewish Spirituality, she has reached people of all backgrounds, helping them find deeper connection, meaning, and healing.
High Holiday Services Open to All
This year, The Ruach Community is extending a warm invitation to everyone in the greater Charlotte area— and beyond— to join Rabbi Damsky for its signature High Holiday services. Rosh HaShanah, the Jewish New Year, will be observed on Sept. 23 at 10 a. m., and Kol Nidre, the solemn opening of Yom Kippur, will take place on Oct. 1 at 7 p. m. Both services are being held in Wolfe Hall at Providence United Methodist Church, located at 2810 Providence Rd., Charlotte, on the Northwest corner of Providence Road and Sharon Lane.
In keeping with the community’ s ethos of inclusion, no membership or financial commitment is required to attend. The message is clear and emphatic: come as you are.“ We believe that everyone should have access to the spiritual nourishment these holy days offer,” says Scott Menaker, supporter of The Ruach.“ Whether you’ ve attended synagogue all your life or are simply seeking a moment of reflection and renewal, you’ re welcome here.”
A Soulful Experience: Music, Meditation, and Message
Those who attend can expect services that are rich with soul-stirring messages and modern Jewish music— a blend designed to uplift, inspire, and guide congregants toward spiritual fulfillment. Rabbi Damsky is known for her ability to create an atmosphere of warmth and authenticity, integrating music, meditation, and thoughtful teaching into every gathering.
“ Jewish tradition has always recognized the power of these days,” Rabbi Damsky reflects.“ They challenge us to look inward, to repair what is broken, and to emerge renewed. It’ s a time for forgiveness, hope, and transformation— not just for individuals, but for our communities and for the world.” An Invitation to All As the High Holidays approach, the doors of The Ruach Community are open.“ Everyone is welcome,” the invitation declares. It’ s a message that resonates far beyond the walls of Wolfe Hall, echoing the deepest values of the Jewish tradition: hospitality, compassion, and the ever-present possibility of renewal.
For those seeking spiritual growth, a sense of belonging, or simply a moment of peace, these services promise to nourish the soul and awaken the heart. In the words of Rabbi Damsky,“ Come as you are— and let this sacred season transform you.”
No matter where you are on your journey, there is a place for you at The Ruach Community this year.
For more information, email: the. ruach. community @ gmail. com