New rabbi to lead Erev Rosh Hashanah services at Temple B'nai Israel

LACONIA — Laconia's Temple B'nai Israel will be observing the Erev Rosh Hashanah this evening with Shabbat Services at 7:30 p.m., followed by a traditional holiday treat of apples and honey — symbolizing the wish for a sweet new year.

On hand to lead the services will be the Temple's new student rabbi, Joshua Burrows, a 28-year-old rabbinic student at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York, who is less than two years away from completing his studies and embarking on a full-time vocation.

Engaged to be married to Gabi Arad, a cantor, as well as a rabbinic student who he describes as "the nicest, most beautiful, most dynamic woman you will ever meet," Burrows isn't certain whether he'll end up as a congregational rabbi or as a teacher at a Jewish Day School. But whatever course he ultimately pursues, he's looking forward to being able to share the experience with Gabi — together — as part of one community.

A native of the Ozarks, but having resided either in suburban New York City, or as now, on Manhattan's Upper West Side since his prepubescent years, Burrows has served as an intern Rabbi in upstate New York as a part of his studies, so he's not entirely a novice at the pulpit. In addition, he has been commissioned by the U.S. Navy to be trained as a Chaplain and as a naval officer, and he's been actively involved in an array of community and humanitarian efforts.

"I'm already enjoying my time in Laconia," Burrows said as he prepares for the third time to lead Shabbat Services at the Temple on Court Street. "It's a warm, wonderful community, all working together and stepping up to help out."

Henry Lipman, President of Temple B'nai Israel, speaks as fondly of Burrows. "We're really fortunate to have Joshua join us," Lipman said. "He's quickly become an important part of our community."