anchor: RWletter
Dear Adath Community,
With a heart full of gratitude to Adath, I write to share that I have decided to step down as the Senior Rabbi at the end of my contract on May 31, 2027.
Adath became my spiritual home in March 2012 when I interviewed as a 26-year-old rabbinical student. I have benefited from the wisdom of eight synagogue presidents and seven clergy partners. Without exception, each one has brought remarkable gifts. Such a rare and trusting board-clergy partnership defines Adath. We open the many doors to Jewish life. Together with highly devoted officers and trustees, a dream team of collaborative staff, and congregants who bring out the best in one another, we create a spiritual home every day.
This has been a difficult decision. I love Adath, our trailblazing spirit as the oldest Conservative congregation west of the Mississippi, and our larger community. Proud of our history, we choose questions born of curiosity over answers that idolize conformity. Finding a synagogue that practices what it preaches, that develops a culture of philanthropy through a visionary foundation – almost 40 years old – isn’t just a nice match. This is the stuff of sacred relationship. I have been honored to hold the Berman Family Chair in Jewish Learning and the Max Newman Family Chair in Rabbinics. The generosity of our community extends beyond Hillside Lane West. Whether through joy or upheaval or both, our great state boasts civic engagement, Jewish and multifaith communal organizations, and clergy colleagues that are second to none. Adath members routinely assume leadership roles in major organizations locally and nationally and share our Torah broadly and deeply. You are some of my greatest teachers.
My becoming a rabbi was possible because of many who paved a way before there was one. Adath embraced me fully, knowing my path is anything but straight. Still, it has had a linear route from high school right into college, college right into rabbinical school, and rabbinical school right into my first and only position as a rabbi. It feels right to pause now and move with intention. As I discern what’s next, I want to notice what’s needed in my relationship to family. Wherever my path unfolds, I hope that fifteen years counts to be a Minnesotan.
Please know how much I want to be with you as you read this letter. Like when we sat on our lakeside patio to launch Soulful Prayer at Adath (SPA) and stood up across the Twin Cities for Jewish values of justice. Like when we started a pop-up dance party at a gas station near Marrakech and tracked down the best jelly donuts for Hanukkah in Jerusalem. Like when we chose courageous conversation and took bold action and exhaled in peace stepping into our sanctuary. And like when we lost track of time learning ancient texts and new ideas and listened for one another and the Holy Ancient One calling us anew.
With a heart full of gratitude to Adath, I write to share that I have decided to step down as the Senior Rabbi at the end of my contract on May 31, 2027.
Adath became my spiritual home in March 2012 when I interviewed as a 26-year-old rabbinical student. I have benefited from the wisdom of eight synagogue presidents and seven clergy partners. Without exception, each one has brought remarkable gifts. Such a rare and trusting board-clergy partnership defines Adath. We open the many doors to Jewish life. Together with highly devoted officers and trustees, a dream team of collaborative staff, and congregants who bring out the best in one another, we create a spiritual home every day.
This has been a difficult decision. I love Adath, our trailblazing spirit as the oldest Conservative congregation west of the Mississippi, and our larger community. Proud of our history, we choose questions born of curiosity over answers that idolize conformity. Finding a synagogue that practices what it preaches, that develops a culture of philanthropy through a visionary foundation – almost 40 years old – isn’t just a nice match. This is the stuff of sacred relationship. I have been honored to hold the Berman Family Chair in Jewish Learning and the Max Newman Family Chair in Rabbinics. The generosity of our community extends beyond Hillside Lane West. Whether through joy or upheaval or both, our great state boasts civic engagement, Jewish and multifaith communal organizations, and clergy colleagues that are second to none. Adath members routinely assume leadership roles in major organizations locally and nationally and share our Torah broadly and deeply. You are some of my greatest teachers.
My becoming a rabbi was possible because of many who paved a way before there was one. Adath embraced me fully, knowing my path is anything but straight. Still, it has had a linear route from high school right into college, college right into rabbinical school, and rabbinical school right into my first and only position as a rabbi. It feels right to pause now and move with intention. As I discern what’s next, I want to notice what’s needed in my relationship to family. Wherever my path unfolds, I hope that fifteen years counts to be a Minnesotan.
Please know how much I want to be with you as you read this letter. Like when we sat on our lakeside patio to launch Soulful Prayer at Adath (SPA) and stood up across the Twin Cities for Jewish values of justice. Like when we started a pop-up dance party at a gas station near Marrakech and tracked down the best jelly donuts for Hanukkah in Jerusalem. Like when we chose courageous conversation and took bold action and exhaled in peace stepping into our sanctuary. And like when we lost track of time learning ancient texts and new ideas and listened for one another and the Holy Ancient One calling us anew.
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Those are some of many memories, and I look forward to hearing more that stand out to you. As I feel the grief of saying goodbye, I am excited about all we will do this coming year. I give my full support in the transition and believe in the joyful future of our community. We are enriched, not depleted, when more people have skin in the game. You embody the Kotzker Rebbe’s teaching that the words of our tradition sit on top of the heart, al levavecha, until we choose to let the words enter. Thank you for modeling such open heartedness in our holy work together. My heart is forever grateful.
With love and strength, 
Senior Rabbi
Max Newman Family Chair in Rabbinics |
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anchor: AMletter
Dear Adath Community,
It is with a heavy but hopeful heart that I share this news. After nearly 15 years with our congregation, Rabbi Weininger has made the difficult decision to leave Adath at the conclusion of his contract on May 31, 2027.
Rabbi Weininger has left a remarkable impact on all of our lives. He has met us at the most joyous of milestones from baby namings, b’nai mitzvah, weddings, and anniversaries to the hardest of days in sickness, challenge, and grief. In the most important moments, he has shown up with love, care, compassion, and strength. He has led a legacy of kindness that is truly the secret sauce of our beloved k’hillah. He has inspired all of us to be the best humans we can be, modeling Hesed and asking us to join him in repairing the world. Along with his clergy partners who came before and after him, he sheltered all of us with peace and love, offering a welcoming home away from home - a sacred and beautiful community that is Adath.
We know this news will be met with a mix of emotions. For me, sadness is present - the price I pay for the love and care he offered to all of us. Equally present are gratitude, respect, admiration, and a deep knowing that Rabbi Weininger will always remain my Rabbi. No matter where this beautiful life takes him, he will bring all of us along in his heart and we will do the same. Our amazing staff, clergy, and lay leaders stand by to support all of you as you process this news. My door always remains open with a listening ear and a welcoming embrace.
We will be convening a small task force of lay leaders to partner with our staff and clergy and begin paving our path forward. There are certainly many factors to consider and we are fortunate to have strong leadership to help us navigate this course. Rest assured, there will be time to share updates with you throughout the year as they unfold.
In the meantime, I ask you to join me in this final year surrounding Rabbi Weininger with hope, love, and celebration. We have so much exciting work ahead building Adath’s future and are grateful that Rabbi Weininger will continue to lead our congregation forward this year. This Shabbat is especially full with opportunities to gather together in community. Please join us at Friday evening musical services at Adath, the Saturday morning JFCS J-Pride service co-led by Rabbi Weininger at Saint Mark’s Cathedral, or our usual Shabbat morning services at Adath where clergy, staff, and lay leaders are excited to welcome you. Stay tuned for details on a congregational celebration next spring where we will honor the legacy Rabbi Weininger has built. Wherever life takes him next, we can all be proud to say we were a part of his impact on the world.
With love and strength,
It is with a heavy but hopeful heart that I share this news. After nearly 15 years with our congregation, Rabbi Weininger has made the difficult decision to leave Adath at the conclusion of his contract on May 31, 2027.
Rabbi Weininger has left a remarkable impact on all of our lives. He has met us at the most joyous of milestones from baby namings, b’nai mitzvah, weddings, and anniversaries to the hardest of days in sickness, challenge, and grief. In the most important moments, he has shown up with love, care, compassion, and strength. He has led a legacy of kindness that is truly the secret sauce of our beloved k’hillah. He has inspired all of us to be the best humans we can be, modeling Hesed and asking us to join him in repairing the world. Along with his clergy partners who came before and after him, he sheltered all of us with peace and love, offering a welcoming home away from home - a sacred and beautiful community that is Adath.
We know this news will be met with a mix of emotions. For me, sadness is present - the price I pay for the love and care he offered to all of us. Equally present are gratitude, respect, admiration, and a deep knowing that Rabbi Weininger will always remain my Rabbi. No matter where this beautiful life takes him, he will bring all of us along in his heart and we will do the same. Our amazing staff, clergy, and lay leaders stand by to support all of you as you process this news. My door always remains open with a listening ear and a welcoming embrace.
We will be convening a small task force of lay leaders to partner with our staff and clergy and begin paving our path forward. There are certainly many factors to consider and we are fortunate to have strong leadership to help us navigate this course. Rest assured, there will be time to share updates with you throughout the year as they unfold.
In the meantime, I ask you to join me in this final year surrounding Rabbi Weininger with hope, love, and celebration. We have so much exciting work ahead building Adath’s future and are grateful that Rabbi Weininger will continue to lead our congregation forward this year. This Shabbat is especially full with opportunities to gather together in community. Please join us at Friday evening musical services at Adath, the Saturday morning JFCS J-Pride service co-led by Rabbi Weininger at Saint Mark’s Cathedral, or our usual Shabbat morning services at Adath where clergy, staff, and lay leaders are excited to welcome you. Stay tuned for details on a congregational celebration next spring where we will honor the legacy Rabbi Weininger has built. Wherever life takes him next, we can all be proud to say we were a part of his impact on the world.
With love and strength,
Adath President
anchor: FAQRW
Questions & Answers
Rabbi Weininger has meant a great deal to our community. We know the news of his departure next May may bring many emotions and questions. While some matters are personal and private, we are committed to communicating openly and keeping the congregation informed as we move through this transition together.
Why is Rabbi Weininger Leaving?
Rabbi Weininger has decided that his current contract will be his last at Adath. He will continue serving as Senior Rabbi through May 2027. This was a thoughtful and difficult decision for him. We encourage congregants to read Rabbi Weininger's message and hear directly from him what he wishes to share about this next chapter. We are deeply grateful for his leadership and look forward to celebrating his many contributions over the coming year.
Was this Rabbi Weininger's decision?
Yes. Rabbi Weininger made the decision not to renew his contract. The Board of Trustees and synagogue leadership respect his decision and are committed to supporting both Rabbi Weininger and the congregation through this transition.
When will Rabbi Weininger conclude his service at Adath?
Rabbi Weininger will continue to serve as Senior Rabbi through May 31, 2027. He remains fully engaged in congregational life and leadership during this transition year, and we are grateful to have this time together.
Will there be opportunities to celebrate Rabbi Weininger's contributions?
Yes. Stay tuned for details on a congregational celebration next spring where we will honor the legacy Rabbi Weininger has built. We will share details as plans are finalized.
What is the plan for leadership after Rabbi Weininger leaves?
The Board of Trustees is convening a small task force of lay leaders to partner with staff and clergy and begin planning for the congregation's next chapter. This is an important moment for Adath, and leadership is committed to a thoughtful and transparent process. We have time to plan well and will share updates as decisions are made.
Will the congregation's mission, values, or direction change?
Adath's mission, values, and governance remain unchanged. We have important work ahead as we continue Building Adath's Future, and that work will continue. Adath has a long history and a strong foundation that extends far beyond any one individual.
Is the synagogue stable?
Yes. Leadership transitions are a normal part of the life of any congregation. Adath remains strong, with dedicated clergy, staff, lay leaders, and an engaged community. The Board, clergy, and staff are focused on ensuring a thoughtful transition and a vibrant future.
When will we hear more?
The Board will continue to communicate with the congregation throughout the coming year. As decisions are made regarding transition planning, celebrations, and the search process, we will share updates through our regular communication channels.
What do I do if I have questions?
We understand that this announcement may bring questions, reflections, and emotions. Some questions may not have answers yet, and we are committed to communicating openly and sharing updates as plans develop. If you have questions, thoughts, or anything you'd like to share, please do not hesitate to reach out.
- To reach one of the clergy: [email protected] or 952.215.3925
- To reach Ann Miller, President: [email protected] or 952.215.3912
- To reach Susan Geller, Executive Director: [email protected] or 952.215.3908
We are grateful for the year ahead together. By supporting one another with kindness and respect, we will honor Rabbi Weininger's legacy and continue building a vibrant future for Adath.