About
As someone who was once disengaged, I want to help others who may not know how to integrate their Jewish identity with their authentic selves. It is upon us to reform, renew, and reintegrate Jewish tradition into our lives in order to celebrate the fullness of who we are.
Mission
Crafting ritual that speaks to unique experiences not previously ritualized in Judaism. Guiding others in finding their Jewish path and identity. Teaching about gender diversity and inclusion in ancient Jewish texts. Preaching about loving ourselves, loving others, and celebrating diversity. Leading creativity workshops or mindfulness meditations to find alternate routes to spirituality.
Vision
To build a sense of belonging among Jews of various intersecting identities. To create meaningful moments of Jewish engagement. To pave pathways that connect our Jewish past with our Jewish future.
Education and Experience
Rabbi Tovlev received a BFA in Creative Writing and a BA in Psychology from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. He received an MFA in Poetry from Chapman University in Orange, California. He worked as a freelance writer, editor, and proofreader in Minneapolis before applying to rabbinical school. Rabbi Tovlev was the second out trans student to be accepted to HUC-JIR, and the fourth out trans student to be ordained from the institution. While in rabbinical school, he worked with: Women of the Wall in Jerusalem to advance equality at the Kotel; a small congregation in rural California as their solo rabbi; Or Ami in Calabasas, CA as the director of their family education program; CCAR Press as their rabbinic intern; and Congregation Beit Simchat Torah in Manhattan as an unofficial rabbinic intern and director of trans programming. Since ordination, Rabbi Tovlev has spoken and taught in various communities, adapted liturgy to be gender-inclusive, proofread for the Conservative Movement's new siddur, and led worship at the URJ 150th Anniversary gathering.