Leadership

Rabbi Koas was selected to represent Israel as a shaliach, or emissary, for the Progressive Zionist Movement in Melbourne, Australia, where he coordinated and facilitated synagogue, school, and youth group community programs. Following his three-year term in Australia, Rabbi Koas moved to the United States, serving for six years as the Director of Education at the Park Avenue Synagogue in Manhattan. He simultaneously served as Editor-in-Chief of the Hebrew-language newspaper supplement “Here and There”, and made guest appearances on the Israeli “Voice of the Heart” radio-broadcast talk show.

Rabbi Koas came to Norfolk from Marlboro Jewish Center, NJ where he served eight years as Associate Rabbi and Education Director.

Rabbi Koas is a lover of the outdoors and is particularly fond of hiking and water activities. His favorite place is the Tel Aviv Beach and his favorite food is Shakshuka.

Rabbi Koas has three children: Daniel, Yair and Talia.

Rabbi Koas believes that we all need to work together toward a vision of inclusion, striving to make our synagogue a place where everyone feels welcome to experience the power and beauty of Jewish tradition. What he loves most about his work is the opportunity to get to know people of all ages, help them discover the meaning and direction that Judaism can provide, and show them how beautiful Judaism can be.

Rabbi Ruberg is married to Miriam Brunn Ruberg. The Rubergs have two children — Jeremy, who lives in New York with his wife Rebecca, is following in the “family business” by graduating from the Jewish Theological Seminary and is now an assistant rabbi at the New City Jewish Center in New York, and Adina, a graduate of Ohio State University who lives in Chicago with her husband, Ben Kozberg, and their sons.

Rabbi Ruberg welcomes calls and e-mails from those who want further information about Congregation Beth El – its religious and educational approach, ongoing activities, and programs.

To reach Rabbi Ruberg by email, write to RabbiAR@bethelnorfolk.com.