MEET

David Kasakove

Judaism is a journey – and I welcome you to join me wherever you are on your path! The Jewish journey started with Avram and Sarai when they set off from Haran to an unknown destination. Imagine what they would say now, looking at Jewish life today? For me, my adult Jewish journey began when I was in my mid-20’s -- looking for meaning and grounding in my life. Turning from a career in New York city in the creative arts (including theater and Marvel comics), I went to Jerusalem to study – ultimately leading to my getting a degree in Religious Education from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, and working for about a decade for the Reform movement as associate director of education, developing books and media about Jewish life to be used by students of all ages. I then pursued a 25-year legal career as a litigation partner at an international law firm, based in New York, focusing on ethical issues concerning fiduciaries, such as executors, trustees, and board members. As well, I devoted myself to pro bono work, successfully representing refugees seeking asylum in the United States. During those years as a lawyer, I volunteered as a congregational and communal leader – as president of Congregation Beth Elohim in Park Slope, Brooklyn (where my wife and I have lived and raised our now-adult daughter), and as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Union for Reform Judaism.

In 2021, I turned back to Jewish professional life as Senior Advisor for Ethics for the Central Conference of American Rabbis, where I advise Reform rabbis on their ethical duties. Through all these years, I have always studied and taught – letting my curiosity take me and my fellow travelers on a wonderful journey through Jewish time, wisdom, and history. Through study and practice, I have experimented with what it means to lead a Jewish life today – grateful to often find new meaning in my life and in my relationships with the Jewish and broader community. What excites you or troubles you? Where does Judaism fit into – or not fit into – your daily life? Let’s explore together as we head towards the next vistas in our Jewish journeys!