Hi I’m Denise,
I’m a rabbi, doula, professor, and mom. I love connecting with people and helping them on their journey to add meaning to their lives, whether through officiating their weddings, inspiring folks to work together for social justice, or learning and laughing together.
I think this is a really exciting time for the institutions that touch my life — synagogues and schools — to become much more creative, dynamic, and congruent with the values of the people they serve.
We are living a time where we are at once overburdened and also disconnected. We’re too busy to do more and yet hungry for more that matters.
My job is to help people “do Jewish” in a way that works for them, wherever they’re at. I want Judaism to be a force for meaning and goodness in our lives so we are forces for goodness and justice in the world. I also want it to be fun. Sound like what you’re looking for?
<< Learn more about my background and the services I provide as a Rabbi, Doula, and Educator here!
Reviews: The A-Z of Intermarriage
"Whether or not you are Jewish or religious, or even married, if the subject of intermarriage interests you, you'll be extremely fortunate to pick up this book and discover Rabbi Denise Handlarski as your guide to this complex and important subject. Handlarski's wisdom, warmth, knowledge, and humor shine throughout and may very well empower you or a loved one to embrace a new, healthier understanding of what it means to be part of a modern Jewish family."
Greg M. Epstein, Humanist Chaplain at Harvard and MIT
"Who better to guide a deep exploration of the joys and challenges of intermarriage than Denise Handlarski, one of the most creative and passionate rabbis on the scene today? This book, a rarity in that its author is herself an intermarried rabbi, is as fun to read as it is informative.
The A–Z of Intermarriage compellingly demonstrates that the phrase 'proud, intermarried Jew' was never an 'O' for 'Oxymoron.' It illustrates powerfully that the phrase belongs under 'A' for 'Awesome.' It is just the book we need as we live through, and participate in, the transformation of Judaism for a new era."
Dan Libenson and Lex Rofeberg, Judaism Unbound
"Finally! The A-Z of Intermarriage is an accessible guide for interfaith couples and their families to navigate issues with love and a generous dose of humor. Both practical and entertaining, this daring book will help all who read it and the many generations to come."
Dr. Keren R. McGinity, Director, Interfaith Families Jewish Engagement, Shoolman Graduate School of Jewish Education and Jewish Studies, Hebrew College
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