Rabbi Joel Fleekop

Phone: 408-358-1751 x114
Email:

Growing up I was taught to see a sunset as a miracle, kindness as a Jewish value, and the synagogue community as a giant family. As a rabbi, these lessons about finding holiness in our world, putting our Jewish values to use everyday, and building and sustaining a warm and welcoming congregation remain my guide.

Education and Training

Graduated Magna Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa with High Honors in Near Eastern Judaic Studies from Brandeis University.

Began my rabbinic studies at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. After completing the first year program in Jerusalem, I attended the Los Angeles campus where I received both a Master’s in Hebrew Letters as well as rabbinic ordination.

Student rabbi of Congregation B’nai Israel in Butte, MT.

Rabbinic intern at Congregation Kol Ami in West Hollywood, CA.

Graduate assistant for Judaic Studies courses at the University of Southern California and as intern for the Berit Milah Program of Reform Judaism.

Ordained by HUC-JIR in 2005.

Joined Congregation Shir Hadash in 2005, serving initially as Assistant Rabbi and now, in my current role of Associate Rabbi.

Temple Role/Responsibilities

In addition to leading services and officiating at life cycle events, I oversee the congregation’s havurot, youth groups, and programming for members in their 20s and 30s. I assist B’nai Mitzvah students with their speeches and teach both Hebrew High as well as Adult Education classes. I also work with our Connectedness and Social Justice Committees and plan special events like the Sukkah sleepover, trips to the theater and art galleries, and the Congregational Camping Trip.

Community Connections

I serve on the board of the Pacific Association of Reform Rabbis (PARR) and the Silicon Valley Jewish Community Relations Council. I am also a member of the People Acting in Community Together (PACT) Community Organizing Clergy Circle, the Jewish-Catholic Dialogue Group, and the Los Gatos Clergy committee.

Background/Personal Information

My wife, Andrea Fleekop, is the Director of Education at Temple Beth Torah in Fremont. Blessed with a beautiful daughter, Yael Tamar, we enjoy spending time as a family at the beach, hiking, and relaxing with a good movie or game on the television. I love sports — both participating and watching — with my team loyalties an eclectic mix. Since moving to the South Bay I have adopted our beloved Los Tiburones. Go Sharks!!

L’shalom,
Rabbi Joel Fleekop