“We are committed to creating a meaningful, creative, and fun Jewish experience with low barriers to engagement for everyone— LGBT folks, interfaith families, and seekers of all flavors.”
Rabbi Ben Newman, Founder and Spiritual Leader of Shtiebel.
Rabbi Ben Newman is the founder and spiritual leader of Shtiebel, a home for soulful, inclusive, and creative Jewish practice in the Rivertowns. A singer-songwriter, author, and teacher, Rabbi Ben blends ancient wisdom with contemporary expression, creating meaningful Jewish experiences rooted in mysticism, mindfulness, and music.
Ordained in 2006, Rabbi Ben has served diverse communities across the country, including Temple Beth Shalom in Hastings-on-Hudson, Har Shalom in Fort Collins, and as Director of Spiritual Life at the Shames JCC. In 2016, he founded Shtiebel as an experimental, heart-centered Jewish community. In 2022, Shtiebel merged with Pleasantville Community Synagogue, where he co-led with his wife, Rabbi Shoshana Leis.
Drawing on Jewish Renewal, Hasidic teachings, and Buddhist and contemplative traditions, Rabbi Ben’s leadership is playful, profound, and people-focused. He is the author of several books on Jewish spirituality, including The 10 Pathways, and produces original music and children’s stories as Kaphtziel.
He lives in Dobbs Ferry with his family and their two dogs, and is passionate about helping people find connection, healing, and joy through Jewish life.
