PRESENTING JACQUELINE GRAD MENAKER AS RABBI AND TEACHER IN ISRAEL
Presented by Rabbi Steven W. Engel, Rabbi Emeritus, Congregation of Reform Judaism, Orlando, Florida
Rabbi Jonathan Sacks z” l taught“ To be a Jew is to travel. Judaism is a journey, not a destination." He was emphasizing that Jewish life is an ongoing process of learning and growth, not just reaching a final goal. Such has been the journey of Jacqueline Menaker leading her to this sacred moment. Through her own personal journey, Jacqueline has understood the importance of constant striving and learning. From one not connected to her Judaism, to one who embraced it fully, to her love of music and Judaism, to her work in a congregation; all have led to her ordination today. Jacqueline’ s journey has exemplified her never-ending quest to grow, learn, evolve, and to become more deeply connected to her faith and, now, calling.
For many years she was a dedicated choir member, then a Soloist, then she became an invested Cantor at our Congregation of Reform Judaism in Orlando. There she studied and taught, engaged in community service, and fostered connections within our Jewish community. Her path to becoming a Cantor involved years of study, introspection, and engagement with Jewish texts, traditions, and communities. All of this was done while working full time as the Soloist at our congregation; truly an amazing accomplishment. Jacqueline ' s rabbinic ordination is merely another step in what I know will be years of dedication to the Jewish faith, and to her desire to continue to learn and develop as a spiritual leader. Though this moment of ordination is a significant milestone, marking an achievement, it is also a new beginning in her lifelong journey of faith, teaching, and service.
Jacqueline is also a shining example of Rabbi Sacks ' teachings, for she is a beacon of light to the Jewish community. Jacqueline will guide others on their own journeys of faith and spiritual growth by modeling that being a Jew is not about reaching a specific destination but about continuously striving to deepen one ' s understanding of God and the world. Her own journey will serve as an inspiration to others, illustrating by example that the pursuit of knowledge, spiritual growth, and contribution to one’ s community are central to being a full human being.
As her teacher and partner in congregational life for so many years, I am proud to now call her a colleague and as always, a friend.
BEIT DIN
Rabbi Matthew Goldstone, PhD- Somekh Rabbi David Evan Markus, JD Rabbi Jill Hammer, PhD
8 AJR 2025