The Young Israel of Hillcrest is taking the opportunity to express tremendous hakaras ha’tov to Rabbi Dr. Richard and Adina Weiss for all that they have brought to the Hillcrest community and to the congregation. Anyone in our community who has faced the challenges of illness, bereavement, or any of the trials that life brings during the 17 years since Rabbi Weiss took the helm of the shul can attest to the caring, empathy, and understanding that the Rav has shown to them and their families. Coming to the Young Israel after serving at the West Side Jewish Center, and as Assistant Rabbi at the Fifth Avenue Synagogue, and Congregation Beth Sholom, Rabbi Weiss brought with him his experience in diverse congregations, excelling at providing halachic guidance and pastoral care while dedicating himself to participation in the smachos and other milestones of his congregants, contributing to every celebration with verve and, often, his own brand of humor.
Rabbi Weiss grew up in the Detroit area, attended Yeshiva University where he received his BA, and went on to complete his training as a physician while becoming a musmach of the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary of Yeshiva University. In addition to serving as our mara d’asra, Rabbi Weiss lectured in biology at the Stern College for Women of Yeshiva University. Rebbetzin Adina brought her innate pedagogic skills and engaging, friendly demeanor to bear in her numerous divrei Torah, speeches, and lessons, expanding the scope of the contribution that the Rabbi and Rebbetzin, together, make to the community. A native of Great Neck, her beautiful accent attests to the formative years she spent living in Israel and her many years in education. Together, the Rabbi and Adina raised their three delightful daughters – Eliana, Liron, and Chen – whose presence always enlivened the Young Israel of Hillcrest. The membership has been fortunate to benefit from the leadership of this wonderful couple and are proud to acknowledge them this Wednesday evening, June 29, as they embark on the next chapter in their lives.
