MEET

Rabbi Matt Shapiro

Hi there! I'm Rabbi Matt Shapiro, and I'd love to learn with you. I currently work as Director of Youth Learning and Engagement at Temple Beth Am in Los Angeles, which means I'm responsible for all opportunities for kids and their families at the synagogue. Previously, I worked for six years at Beit T’shuvah, an addiction recovery center with Jewish wisdom and spirituality incorporated into its treatment model. In addition to those full time roles, I've worked in pretty much every type of Jewish educational setting there is: Honeymoon Israel trips, adult education class, Hebrew high school, Jewish camp, and so on. What brings it all together for me is a deep passion for our tradition and the ways in which we can find resources to connect more deeply with ourselves, others, God, and the world through its wisdom. I think it's essential to meet people where they're at, and I know that we each bring our unique story and experiences into how we engage with Judaism. I'm grateful to be a part of a tradition that helps me find meaning, and I'd love to continue that exploration with you.

I'm also one half of a rabbi-rabbi couple, a frequently exhausted dad of three school-age boys, and a native Chicagoan. I find connection through meditating, studying Hasidic texts, going to the beach and museums, and seeing my kids learn new things. I love live music, stand up comedy, reading, basketball, and The Muppets. I hope to connect with you soon!