Rabbi Betzel's Story
I’ve always believed that the heart of Judaism lies in connection—connection to tradition, to community, to one another, and to something greater than ourselves. Long before I became a rabbi, I was a teacher at heart. Whether in the classroom, the courtroom, or the synagogue, I’ve always found joy in helping people learn, grow, and feel seen.
Although much of my professional life was spent practicing law and providing financial services, I always made space for teaching—at The Ohio State University, Bowling Green State University, and Columbus State Community College. That love of teaching, combined with a deepening spiritual journey, eventually led me to pursue the rabbinate.
I earned my Master’s in Jewish Studies from Gratz College and later received rabbinic ordination and a Master’s in Rabbinics from the Academy for Jewish Religion in Los Angeles, CA. I’m proud to serve as the rabbi of Temple Beth Israel–Shaare Zedek in Lima, Ohio—a warm, inclusive Reform congregation where all are welcome.
I’m also a member of Ohalah: The Association of Rabbis and Cantors for Jewish Renewal and the AJR's Clergy and Alumni Association (CAA), and I’m currently part of Cohort #13 of The iCenter's Master’s Concentration in Israel Education.
Before entering rabbinical school, I spent time studying in Israel and volunteering on several IDF bases—experiences that continue to shape how I teach, lead, and live today.
My goal is simple: to use all of these life experiences—spiritual, educational, and personal—to help you create meaningful, joyous, and memorable Jewish moments, whether you're celebrating a wedding, marking a transition, or simply seeking connection.
My Philosophy
Progressive Judaism
Tradition is a living, evolving guide—meant to grow with us, illuminating the unique journey of every Jew.
Inclusivity
We strive to create a sacred space that embraces all, honoring the divine spark within every person and celebrating the full spectrum of human experience.
Interfaith Embrace
We honor and respect the diverse spiritual paths of others, while deepening our own Jewish identity through open-hearted dialogue and shared values.
My Personal Mission
As a rabbi, my mission is to ensure that Judaism remains a source of meaning, belonging, and purpose for every individual Jew. I embrace our tradition as a living, evolving inheritance—rooted in the past, yet responsive to the needs of today. I am committed to fostering an inclusive, ever-widening circle that reflects the boundless love of the Divine. In doing so, I seek to help the Jewish people continue to be a source of blessing, compassion, and justice for all humanity.
