Low-Residency Mekhinah Spring Intensive

At the end of March, Mekhinah students from across the country gathered on the JTS campus for an immersive week of learning and community. The group of 12 students spent their days studying, praying, singing, and celebrating Shabbat together, deepening their connection to Jewish life and practice.

After spending the semester building community online, the students were moved to learn in person with their mentors and teachers – Rabbi Noam Kornsgold, Rabbi Paula Mack Drill, and Achia Anzi. It was meaningful to continue developing their Hebrew and text skills, and to further reflect on their path to becoming clergy.

Earlier in the semester, they had explored the topic of Jewish liturgy, so students were overjoyed when they had the opportunity to meet Rabbi Jan Uhrbach, editor of the Lev Shalem siddur. Rabbi Uhrbach welcomed the students and offered a behind-the-scenes look at the process of creating the prayer book, highlighting its unique features.

The group also delved into sacred texts about the mitzvot of Shabbat and shared delightful Shabbat meals with current JTS rabbinical and cantorial students. On Shabbat morning, they visited vibrant synagogue communities on the Upper West Side, experiencing the richness of local Jewish life.

They concluded their time together by joining the minyan at B’nai Jeshurun for Rosh Hodesh Hallel, led by rabbinical student Joe Blumberg. After the service, the group gathered for a meaningful breakfast prepared by migrants who are growing their catering business with support from BJ’s social action team.

Of the 20 students who participated in this year’s Low Residency Mekhinah program, 10 will begin rabbinical or cantorial school in the fall.

Applications are now open for our Fall 2025 semester. Please contact Rabbi Annie Lewis if you are interested in joining our next cohort or starting your career as a transformative Jewish leader.