Hello! I'm Rabbi Monica Kleinman and am delighted to connect with you. I am a rabbi, Jewish educator, midwesterner, wife, and mom to my two year old son and five year old beagle. 

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I was born and raised in southeastern Wisconsin - I'm a lifelong Green Bay Packers fan and alumna of the University of Wisconsin, Madison. While in school I found my home at UW-Hillel, leading the Reform minyan, working the front desk, and giving tours to anyone who walked in the door!

 

While a student at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, Ohio, I had the honor of praying, teaching, and learning with communities in Trenton MI, Grand Forks ND, McGehee AR, Louisville KY, and various synagogues and within Cincinnati.  I also studied alongside public and parochial school teachers seeking their principalship licensure, which culminated in my Master's of Education Administration.

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After ordination my husband (also a rabbi!) and I moved to Mt. Laurel, New Jersey where I served a congregation as its Rabbi-Educator. My husband found his vocation as a hospice chaplain and continues to serve in that capacity now that we are in Overland Park, Kansas.

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I love helping people discover what they love about Judaism and giving them the tools to help enrich their lives. From running religious schools and B'nai Mitzvah programs to mentoring confirmands and conversion candidates, I relish the opportunity to learn what makes Judaism special for each individual. Sharing smachot [happy occasions] and sad times together further cement the beautiful relationships Jewish tradition helps us build.

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Thank you for being interested in me, let me know about you and how we can connect Jewishly!

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Looking for something a little more official? See my professional resume.