Sometimes innovative people are also natural connectors. My colleague here at Reclaiming Judaism, Rabbi Shohama Wiener is such a one. Her most amazing talent is engaging with each person in such an uplifting way that we experience spirituality in her very presence. And when Shohama lights up, you know something holy is going to happen.

Leading lights of Jewish spiritual teaching, students, families, congregants and colleagues came from the world-over when Shohama was honored further this past weekend at a Gems of Holiness Shabbaton held at her synagogue, Beth El of City Island: Your Shul by the Sea. The depth of prayer and mitzvah-centered study and joy of celebrating was very high, as was the remarkable opportunity to network with like-minded souls.

The event was so strong that we even sold out all but four copies of the first edition of the book we created in her honor here at Reclaiming Judaism.  Thirty master teachers in the field of Jewish spiritual direction, Hashpa'ah, donated profound chapters in her honor. You can place your order here: Seeking & Soaring: Jewish Approaches to Spiritual Direction.

Rabbi Wiener is moving forward in her R&D here into the field of Jewish spiritual guidance for children. Please be in touch if this is a field where you have experience, resources, needs or innovations!