Meet Rabbi Stuart Federow, Rabbi Emeritus at Shaar Hashalom. Born and raised in Springfield, Missouri, Rabbi Federow's journey began amidst the unique coexistence of two congregations within the United Hebrew Congregation's building – one Reform and the other Orthodox. Though his family belonged to the Orthodox "side," they embraced the Reform religious school, an early glimpse into the inclusive spirit that defines Rabbi Federow's approach.
From a young age, Rabbi Federow found joy in explaining Judaism to friends and neighbors, fostering a deep connection with his faith. By age 11, his passion for Judaism had already ignited his life's purpose. He pursued his undergraduate studies in Psychology and Religious Studies at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, graduating in 1975. Following his ordination from Hebrew Union College - Jewish Institute Religion in Cincinnati, he embarked on a five-year tenure as a rabbi in Greenville, Mississippi.
Remarkably, he concurrently served two additional congregations within a 75-mile radius: Rolling Fork and Clarksdale, Mississippi. His commitment extended to Monroe, Louisiana, where he balanced service while tending to the other three congregations. Prior to his time in Houston, Rabbi Federow enriched Beth Knesset Bamidbar, the "Synagogue In The Desert," in Lancaster, California, from 1987 to 1989.
Rabbi Federow's Houston journey began in 1989, during which he took on the role of Executive Director at the Hillel Foundation of Greater Houston, a crucial position catering to the spiritual and social needs of a diverse Jewish college student community across various campuses in the Greater Houston area.
When asked about his passion, Rabbi Federow emphasizes his love for teaching, particularly to both adults and children. His attraction to CSH (Congregation Shaar Hashalom) stems from its vibrant blend of congregants – a tech-savvy community grounded in science yet drawn to the spiritual essence of Jewish life.
Beyond his spiritual leadership, Rabbi Federow's life is a tapestry of diverse interests. He once soared the skies piloting private airplanes, and his expertise extends to teaching "An Introduction to Judaism" at Houston Baptist University and other local educational institutions. As a prominent figure on "Ask the Rabbi" websites, he engages with individuals seeking answers to their questions, a role that aligns with his own website, https://WhatJewsBelieve.org. Rabbi Federow's ingenuity also shines through his creation, "A Show Of Faith," a live radio talk show where he converses with clergy from different faiths, exploring current events from their unique religious perspectives. The show can be enjoyed online through the radio station's website at https://AM1070TheAnswer.com. Additionally, Rabbi Federow's authored work, "Judaism and Christianity: A Contrast," is available in various formats through Amazon.com, BarnesAndNoble.com, and Play.Google.com, including Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Nook, and eBook editions.
In recognition of his quarter-century of devoted service and contribution to the community, Rabbi Stuart Federow was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity (D.D.) by the Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, Ohio, on June 3, 2007.
Join us at Hebrew Jump Start as Rabbi Stuart Federow continues to illuminate paths into Hebrew culture and tradition, imparting his wisdom and guidance to enrich your journey.
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