Rabbi Josh Lesser

Rabbi Joshua Lesser is a nationally recognized faith leader, social innovator and bridge-builder whose work spans from pioneering LGBTQ+ inclusion in Jewish life to consulting for leading social impact organizations. He served for more than 22 years as the senior rabbi of Congregation Bet Haverim in Atlanta, a Reconstructionist synagogue founded by the LGBTQ+ community, where he helped mentor a new generation of spiritual leaders. Lesser is the founder of SOJOURN, Interfaith Atlanta and the Faith Bridges Initiative. He also serves as a spiritual director and consultant for communities and nonprofits, including The On Being Project, the City of Atlanta and the Natural Resources Defense Council. He is the rabbinic editor of Torah Queeries, a recipient of Atlanta’s Phoenix Award for Exemplary Service and was named one of The Forward’s “Most Inspiring Rabbis.” His work is rooted in a vision of inclusive community, sacred belonging and transformational leadership.

Essays

Yellow-orange wildflowers and green stems against a soft blue and yellow sky, viewed from below.

From Passion to Purpose: How a Board Covenant Transforms Jewish Leadership

May 9, 2025

Jewish leadership is reimagined not as a seat at the table but as avodah, a sacred offering of service.

Rabbi Josh Lesser

Essays

From Passion to Purpose: How a Board Covenant Transforms Jewish Leadership

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