Info
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Who We Are
The Massachusetts Board of Rabbis (MBR) is an organization of rabbis of various streams and groups serving congregations, agencies and institutions within Massachusetts. Its membership consists of people from across the denominational spectrum who come together for friendship, learning, respectful dialog and to speak on behalf of the rabbinic community.
How We Got Here
Originally founded sometime around 1938, the Massachusetts Board of Rabbis was known as the Rabbinical Association of Greater Boston, and met at the offices of the Associated Synagogues at 177 Tremont St. (where the Va'ad meets today). Its founders included Rabbi Herman Rubenovitz of Mishkan Tefila, who served as president for many years, followed by Rabbis Louis Epstein (Kehillath Israel), Joshua Loth Liebman (Temple Israel), Beryl D. Cohen (Temple Sinai), Sam Abrams (Ohabei Shalom). Chaplaincy was a major topic of discussion, along with lay leader Harry Kraft of the Associated Synagogues (now the Synagogue Council of Massachusetts).
Why Join the MBR
The MBR is more than its rich history and wonderful programs; it is also about the relationships we build and the community we nurture. As a member of MBR you will be provided information to join the "Members Only" section of this site, which allows you to:
- -access our Members Directory
- -learn about special offerings for rabbis
To join our growing community, click on the Membership menu item on the left.
Honoraria for Life-cycle Events
Current recommended fees for officiation at funeral homes in the Greater Boston area are:
$625 for graveside-only or memorial service-only funerals
$725 for chapel service plus graveside.
The current range of fees for weddings in our area is from $750 to $1,500 (a/o February 1, 2015).
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Statements
Statements and Resources
The Massachusetts Board of Rabbis celebrates the breadth of diversity within the Jewish people, as among all humanity. Delighting in the myriad ways that human beings are created in God’s image, we encourage the greatest spirit of openness in our communities, that we might be blessed through the unique holiness of all who enter.
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Events
The MBR brings programming to the rabbinic community that varies in content and presentation. It is committed to adding to the educational foundation of its members while building community and camaraderie. Every year there are stand alone opportunities that range from spiritual practice to text study to professional development. The MBR leadership welcomes ideas for programs.
Past Presidents
With thanks to our past presidents:
Rabbi Bruce Ehrmann
Rabbi Earl Grollman
Rabbi Terry Bard
Rabbi Barbara Penzner
Rabbi David Lerner
Rabbi Toba Spitzer
Rabbi Neal Gold