Leadership at nahalat shalom

The Va’ad

The Nahalat Shalom Governing Board is called the Va'ad after the collaborative governing structure used by some Kibbutzim in Israel. All are welcome to attend Va’ad meetings.

Esteban Rael, Director

Cantor Beth Cohen

Beth Cohen) is a well-known vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and music educator in New Mexico. Since 1995, Ms. Cohen has served as the music director and Cantor at Congregation Nahalat Shalom, sharing her joy and love for Jewish music.

Religious School Staff

Our fabulous music and storytelling informed Religious School is led by Director extraordinaire Batya Podos, our talented Cantor Beth Cohen, and dynamic instructor Noah Bloom.

Rabbi Emerita Lynn Gottlieb

Lynn Gottlieb is a pioneer feminist rabbi, storyteller, percussionist, peace educator, writer, ceremonialist, community activist and clown. She is deeply committed to a life grounded in the creativity, joy and wisdom of the Torah (teachings) of Nonviolence.

Rabbi Emerita Deborah Brinn

Rabbi Emerita Deborah J. Brin lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she was the spiritual leader of Congregation Nahalat Shalom for ten years, from 2006-2016. Rabbi Brin was one of the first 100 women rabbis to be ordained, and is one of the first generation of lesbian rabbis.