RABBI KAREN LEVINE
Rabbi Karen, a long-time lay leader of Kehillat Lev Shalem, The Woodstock Jewish Congregation, received private smikha in July 2024 from the WJC’s Rabbi Emeritus Jonathan Kligler to become the new congregational rabbi. Watch her ordination speech on our YouTube channel.
You can make an appointment HERE. Contact her at rabbi.karen@wjcshul.org
HAZZAN RAECHEL ROSEN
Hazzan Raechel is a musician, songwriter and liturgical vocalist for Jewish communities. She majored in music at LaGuardia High School & Wesleyan University and received smikha from Aleph Ordination Program on January 11, 2026, after five years of study. She was born & raised in NYC and has been living in Woodstock since 2020, and serving our community since 2023. Read more about Hazzan Raechel’s recent ordination journey here: https://aop.aleph.org/raechel-rosen/.
She can be reached at hazzanraechel@wjcshul.org.
RABBI EMERITUS JONATHAN KLIGER
Rabbi Emeritus Jonathan Kligler retired as congregational rabbi in 2022.
He is a renowned and beloved teacher of Torah, and is the author of Turn It and Turn It, for Everything Is in It: Essays on the Weekly Torah Portion. He is now devoting himself to writing, teaching, and sharing the joy of music. You can read his latest essays on his Substack publication: “Turn It and Turn It,” https://jonathankligler.substack.com/
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
TARA NICHOLSON, SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR
Tara has nearly 20 years of experience in the world of health, wellness, and spirituality. Her expertise in management, operations, and outreach traverses the NJ, NYC, and CT areas. Ranging from opening up and expanding successful startup companies to adding flavor and upgrading businesses already established, Tara’s passion for wellness and spirituality infuses her life, both personally and professionally. She is so excited to be a part of the WJC family.
Deborah Maukar
Administrative Assistant/Culinary “Extraordinaire”
Technology
Karl Steen
Facilities Manager