Clergy Leadership Program (CLP)

Clergy Leadership Program (CLP)

Program Type: Intensive retreat-based cohort program for Jewish spiritual leaders

Duration: 18 months

Cohort Size: Approximately 40 participants per cohort

Eligibility:

Ordained clergy members or individuals serving in positions of spiritual leadership

Rabbis, cantors, kohanim/kohanot, educators, Hillel professionals, activists, ritualists, executives

Must be able to commit to four 5-day retreats and interim learning over 18 months

Geographic Scope: National; serves Jewish professionals across the US, Israel, and Latin America

Focus Areas:

Deepening personal spiritual life of Jewish leaders

Learning and practicing Jewish spiritual practices grounded in mindfulness

Expanding leadership skills

Deepening capacity to integrate Jewish contemplative practice into communal life

Fostering collective spiritual growth and well-being

Self-care and spiritual renewal for clergy

Cultivating consciousness and character development

Exploring the nature of the spiritual self and God

Study of Hasidic and Rabbinic traditions

Centering and elevating marginalized Jewish voices and experiences

Special Considerations:

Special attention to needs of Jews of Color, LGBTQ+, and participants with disabilities

Financial support available, with priority given to JOC, LGBTQ+, and participants with disabilities

Program Components:

Four 5-day retreats (18-month program)

Prayer, meditation, text study, group discussion, singing/chanting, embodied practice

One-on-one guidance with faculty members

Weekly chevruta (paired) study during interim periods

Sustained personal mindfulness or yoga/mindful movement practice

Regular contact with faculty

Retreat Schedule:

Winter retreats in January at retreat center outside Los Angeles

Summer retreats in July on east coast

All meals certified kosher

Single rooms provided for all participants

Faculty: Rabbis Sam Feinsmith, Myriam Klotz, Dorothy Richman; Cantors Richard Cohn, Elizabeth Shammash; additional faculty may be added for individual retreats

Alumni Network: Over 500 Jewish professionals have participated in CLP; strong alumni community for ongoing support

Contact: Rabbi Sam Feinsmith, (646) 851-0133 ext. 012 or sam@jewishspirituality.org