Rabbi Rachel Schwartz

One of my favorite rabbinic stories is about a rabbi who built a synagogue without lights. Each person when they were granted membership was given a lamp that they would bring when they came. The more people came to shul, the more light they brought into the congregation shining brighter together.

Each one of us brings a light and unique sense of self and journey when they walk into the doors of the FJC. As the Rabbi for Fauquier Jewish Congregation (FJC), it is my hope that the congregation nourishes each of its members Jewishly kindling their neshama, that we will continue to grow as a family warmly welcoming new members into our community, and we will journey together in happy and challenging times celebrating and supporting one another. Everyone one of us, from our newest to our most senior member, has an equally important role in creating a strong, resilient and thriving community. I am honored to be on this journey with you.

I hope you get the chance to come and meet our community, and laugh, learn, celebrate, pray and explore with us. I have been blessed to have been welcomed into the FJC family, and I hope you will feel that love too.

Warmly and with blessings,

Rabbi Rachel

EDUCATION:

Jewish Theological Seminary, New York, NY (Including one year at Machon Schechter, Jerusalem, Israel)

Ordained as a Rabbi and M.A. in Hebrew Letters (Concentration in Pastoral Care)

Wellesley College, Wellesley. B.A. History and Sociology    

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