Rabbi James Cohn

 

“I’m very happy that Wendie and I are making our home in Charleston.  This community offers a wonderful opportunity to blend so many things: the deep roots of Jewish heritage, a historic commitment to its pluralistic and inclusive interpretation, a wider Jewish and non-Jewish community that cherishes religion and the interplay of religious organizations, a host of social, civic, and academic resources, -- and most of all, the generosity of spirit that makes this congregation so warm and welcoming.

 

“I promise to lend my abilities and energies to nourish the spiritual, educational, and social aspects of my congregants’ lives, and to help meet the communal needs in this region as a full and active participant. Of course, most of all, Wendie and I look forward to forming bonds of lasting friendship and affection with you that will be nurturing for us all.  We’re honored and grateful to be part of this congregational family.”

 

Jim Cohn, Rabbi

 

Rabbi Cohn enjoys presenting workshops and seminars on Jewish beliefs and practices; conducting Institutes on Judaism for Jews, prospective Jews, and non-Jews; developing programs for intermarried families; officiating at life-cycle events; and joining with others in creative Jewish thought and dialogue. He is an active leader in areas of interfaith relations, social justice, and community visioning. He is a graduate of the Diversity Leadership Academy and offers diversity training programs for congregations, schools, businesses and communities.

 

Special areas of Rabbi Cohn’s academic interest include dreams, prophecy, and consciousness in the manner of Maimonides (RAMBAM): the multidisciplinary interface of religion, philosophy, psychology and medicine.

 

Rabbi Cohn was ordained in 1978 by the Reform Rabbinical Seminary, Hebrew Union College, in Cincinnati. He served in Greenville, South Carolina for nearly three decades, where he led his congregation in the doubling of its membership and the development of education and Jewish enrichment programs for people of all ages.