FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — After 15 years, Rabbi Rick Winer is departing Temple Beth Israel, a move temple leaders describe to Action News as a “bummer.”<\/p>\n
“I came in 2011, and it’s been a wonderful ride,” the rabbi said on Tuesday.<\/p>\n
Known to many as “Rabbi Rick,” he is leaving in part to reunite with his wife.<\/p>\n
“My wife has commuted to Los Angeles for 10 years, so we’ll be living full-time in the same community,” he said. “I’ve got some non-congregational rabbinic work to do down there, which I’m excited about.”<\/p>\n
His departure comes as membership declines and synagogues nationwide reevaluate how to connect with younger congregants.<\/p>\n
In Fresno, temple leaders also confirm financial difficulties.<\/p>\n
“The numbers are OK, but the financial backing that goes with it has been a challenge,” the rabbi said.<\/p>\n
Temple Beth Israel is now without a full-time rabbi. Friday marked his last service.<\/p>\n
“I’ve been talking to congregants for several months, and people have been sharing very heartfelt wishes,” he told Action News.<\/p>\n
The community has often turned to Rabbi Rick during challenges, from the attack on Israel to local incidents.<\/p>\n
In 2018, Fresno police investigated a possible hate crime after the letters spelling “Israel” were removed.<\/p>\n
Last December, the rabbi spoke out as Fresno State investigated antisemitic vandalism on its campus.<\/p>\n
“There are challenges, but those challenges remind us that we are overwhelmed with positive people,” Rabbi Rick said.<\/p>\n
He thanked interfaith colleagues, local law enforcement and civic leaders, who he said always supported the Jewish community.<\/p>\n
“I have family in the Bay Area. So, this is a convenient stopping ground,” he said. “There are things here that you cannot find anywhere else. So, it is worth the stop.”<\/p>\n
Temple leaders said services will continue as scheduled. They noted they do not need an ordained rabbi but said they will “deeply miss” Rabbi Rick.<\/p>\n
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