UMJC rabbis attending the midyear leadership couples retreat in Nashville laid hands on Nathan Joiner of Ruach Israel, Needham, Mass., as our newest ordained rabbi, on Wednesday afternoon, January 11. Nathan has worked for several years to meet the UMJC requirements for s’micha or rabbinic ordination, including a course of academic study and direct mentoring at Ruach Israel under Rabbi Rich Nichol. Nathan served part of his time at Ruach under a matching grant from the UMJC internship program, and was also the first person to complete the UMJC Madrikh level of licensure. He was also a recipient of scholarship funds through K20, the UMJC initiative focusing on future leadership. 

Rabbi Nathan plans to continue his service at Ruach Israel, where he is involved in teaching, mentoring, organizing chavurot (home groups), and other vital aspects of the ministry there. 

Congratulations to Rabbi Nathan Joiner, his wife Raina, and their two little children, Chaim and Aviva!