- 5786/2025
- Rabbi Nickerson
Rabbi Joel Nickerson
Installation of Senior Rabbi Joel Nickerson
March 9, 2025
Wilshire Boulevard Temple, Los Angeles
Introduction
Standing here today, I remember my very first time in this sanctuary. I was a rabbinical student, watching new rabbis being ordained and I was in awe as they received this great honor. I was captivated by the ner tamid, the eternal flame that, as it flickered, seemed to whisper to me that my future as a rabbi would be bright. I remember looking up at the ceiling and saying, "This place is incredible!" It was a space so majestic and inspiring that it defied all my expectations, simultaneously revealing possibilities for my journey I could have never imagined.
Now, as I officially become the rabbi who gets to call this bimah my forever home, I am once again in awe and overwhelmed. It's no coincidence that this weekend's Torah portion introduced us to the concept of that eternal flame, the light found above this ark and in sanctuaries worldwide. Because the light is once again telling me something profound - that with our help, from all of us here at Wilshire Boulevard Temple, the future of the Jewish people has the chance to be brighter than ever before!
The journey to our future Promised Land is not going be easy, but nothing worthwhile ever is. My path here was full of challenges, but I embrace risk - it’s thrilling, it’s necessary, and it leads to transformation. And it’s what makes me so excited about our road ahead. We have a mission to fulfill. As the Aleinu prayer says, “It is upon us.” I genuinely believe we are uniquely equipped to lead this transformation. At Wilshire Boulevard Temple, we have the tools, resources, and talent to create something no other synagogue can - a model for Jewish communities everywhere.
And if we’re seeking a model of Jews at a crossroads, embarking on a larger-than-life journey, we don’t have to look any further than the Israelites’ trek through the wilderness. Wandering, and then discovering ourselves, is central to the Jewish story. Much of the Torah focuses on this wandering, searching for a Promised Land - a time when the lessons of our journey will yield results. Yet, it’s the wandering itself that is crucial. Our people’s character was formed in the wilderness. It’s where we struggled, learned, and grew. Their journey reflects each of ours in how we navigate life’s challenges.
The Torah’s emphasis on the desert journey highlights four core values that guided the Israelites towards the Promised Land - the same pillars that will steer us on our own journey into a bright future - the same pillars that will guide us in dreaming big and imagining what we can accomplish together.
These four pillars are: Tikvah (Hope) to inspire the next generation, Chazon (Vision) to innovate boldly, Kehillah (Community) to provide comfort and inspiration, and Ometz (Courage) to lead with conviction.
That's why I'm excited to speak with you tonight about my vision for our temple's future. Because when the time comes for me to pass the baton to the next senior rabbi, I want the dreams I share with you tonight to have become reality. The transformation won't happen overnight—not in a week, a year, or even five years—but I promise that together, we will build upon these four essential pillars and revolutionize Jewish life in Los Angeles and beyond.
Hope
When the Israelites left Egypt, they had no guarantees—only the promise of a better future and a clear destination. Tonight, I want us to explore similar dreams and possibilities for our own journey. Despite facing fear, doubt, and exhaustion, the Israelites persevered, sustained by hope. As Rabbi Jonathan Sacks eloquently expressed, "To be a Jew is to be an agent of hope in a world serially threatened by despair... Judaism is the voice of hope in the conversation of humankind."
At Wilshire Boulevard Temple, we must be a place where hope flourishes. We must resist cynicism, choosing optimism over despair. We have to reject blame and negativity. As the Torah teaches, “Chazak ve’ematz, al tirah v’al ta’arotz”—“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or terrified.” In my own journey to this moment, I was tested with loss, injury, and even rebuilding after my own home burned down in the Oakland fire. However, with each challenge, I found greater strength and a deeper appreciation for hope.
Hope is essential. Hope will transform Wilshire Boulevard Temple.
A few months ago I had lunch with a man who is brilliant, sophisticated, passionate, successful, thoughtful, and innovative. He does incredible work in the world. I walked away from that meeting and thought, “Too bad we can’t afford him.” If only we could afford all of you. The truth is, we can’t afford NOT to have you working for us.
We are facing a crisis in the Jewish community. Too few individuals are choosing to dedicate their lives to serving the Jewish people, whether as professionals, or, just as significantly, as volunteer lay leaders. There are only 15 million of us in the world and all of you here today are a minority within that minority because you’re actually in a synagogue. If we don’t get more people working for the Jewish people, whether as professionals or as volunteer leaders, the Jewish community is going to be in serious trouble. Here at Wilshire, we have the resources and platform to tackle this challenge.
It starts with our kids. That’s why my dream is for us to revolutionize our Religious School, transforming it into the Center for Youth Engagement. We need to develop the next generation of Jewish leaders. This won’t just be another educational program—it'll be a groundbreaking approach to helping our children and teens truly live Judaism and take up the mantle; Programs that address not just their Jewish education, but their whole selves—including mental health support, leadership development, and preparation for the challenges they'll face in college and beyond. Let’s take them to the centers of power and decision-making in Sacramento, D.C., and Israel; build their self-confidence so that they walk through this world with Jewish pride and wisdom, and enter college with the skills to engage in meaningful dialogue and debate.
The foundation of this work will begin with our youngest members in our robust ECC programs, with Brawerman Elementary Schools, East and West, which continue to send menschy students to all the best schools across this city, and with our camping program, which has been a cornerstone of Jewish youth leadership for 75 years. With our goal of rebuilding in Malibu, our camp will continue to nurture confident, compassionate young Jews who are ready to shape the future of our community.
But our leadership development vision is not limited to the next generation. We’re going to identify, nurture, and empower leaders across generations and that includes you. Each of you is an emerging leader and I want us to take full advantage of your skills, talents, and passions. I need to put you to work because the journey ahead can’t be accomplished without you. You’re busy, I get it. Let’s get you involved in a way that doesn’t disrupt your life, but enhances it. Hope is what has sustained us and you are our hope. By 2028, my goal is to double the number of actively engaged lay leaders in meaningful congregational roles, creating pathways for you that give you fulfillment and help us get the job done.
We place hope at the heart of everything we do. That’s how we remain vibrant and relevant. But hope alone is not enough—we need a clear vision for our future.
Vision
Just as the Israelites did not merely survive the desert, but dreamed of the Promised Land, we must imagine what could be possible even when it feels impossible. As Proverbs teaches, "Without vision, the people perish."
Nearly a century ago, Rabbi Edgar Magnin and the visionary leaders of this congregation recognized that a synagogue could be more than just a building—it could serve as a source of inspiration. They engaged the finest artists and architects not only to create walls and windows but also to tell a story, evoke emotions, and connect everyone who walked through the doors to something greater than themselves.
Vision is essential. Vision will transform Wilshire Boulevard Temple.
And that’s why my vision for the future is one in which we become the 92nd Street Y of Los Angeles. The 92nd Street Y in New York City has been a model of cultural and Jewish engagement, blending world-class arts, intellectual programming, and lifelong learning. Imagine our spaces, the Audrey Irmas Pavilion, our sanctuaries, and our rooftops as the beating heart of Jewish cultural life in Los Angeles: places where prominent authors and filmmakers showcase their work through a Jewish lens, where concerts and theater performances bring our stories to life, where artists-in-residence develop new expressions of Jewish identity, and where lifelong learners come together to study and debate the ideas that have shaped our people for generations.
And my vision extends beyond our borders, to embrace our homeland, as our engagement with Israel should be equally bold. We will bring in distinguished speakers to tackle tough topics and sponsor Israeli shlichim (emissaries) who will embed in our community and cultivate meaningful and authentic relationships with our members. Through curated trips, we'll deepen our connection to Israel with experiences that shoot to the top of your bucket list. And all of this can lead to my dream of one day establishing an outpost in Israel—a physical location where any member of our synagogue can find respite while enriching their connection to the land, history, people, and culture of Israel—the Wilshire Boulevard Temple home in our homeland.
But our vision shouldn’t stop there. Just as we break physical borders, we can also break digital ones, transforming Wilshire Boulevard Temple into a global digital campus. In my dream, we develop an in-house production company, utilizing the talent in this city to create high-quality digital content that blends contemporary living with ancient Jewish wisdom and is accessible from anywhere in the world. This digital presence will not only deepen the connection for our current members, it will welcome in those who may never set foot in our buildings, ensuring that Wilshire Boulevard Temple is not just a place you go to, but a community that goes with you—wherever you are.
Community
A leader can have a vision, but only through community does it become a reality.
That’s why the third essential element is Community. The Israelites were not merely individuals wandering alone; they were a people united by covenant and purpose. 'Hinei mah tov u'mah na'im, shevet achim gam yachad'—"How good and pleasant it is when brothers and sisters dwell together in unity."
In an era of increasing isolation, division, and loneliness, we will be a beacon of connection—a place where relationships are nurtured, and community thrives. I have seen firsthand how a strong, supportive community—rooted in shared values, common goals, and genuine care—can make all the difference in facing life’s challenges. When my family endured tragedy, navigated illness, and sought connection in unfamiliar cities, both giving and receiving support deepened my conviction that we are more than just individuals. As a congregation, we are a force for good.
Community is essential. Community will transform Wilshire Boulevard Temple.
We will utilize cutting-edge technologies, AI, and advanced software to transform how we engage with our members. However, this isn't about tracking—it's about genuinely recognizing each individual. Over the next three to four years, we will develop a comprehensive engagement platform that fosters deeper connections, ensuring that no member feels unseen. By 2028, we aim for 75% of our congregation to actively participate in our meaningful programs. We’ll build smart systems that connect members with opportunities that match their interests, skills, and life stages. Imagine a synagogue where every member feels welcomed and truly known—where technology enhances human connection rather than replaces it.
Our vision of community extends beyond these walls to the larger Los Angeles community. The Karsh Family Social Service Center reflects our commitment to tikkun olam—repairing the world. As the Torah teaches, “You shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the feelings of the stranger, having yourselves been strangers in the land of Egypt.” We must care for our neighbors, regardless of their background or faith.
My heart breaks every time I drive up to this campus on a Tuesday or Sunday and see the line of people who are waiting for their turn to pick up food from our food pantry. And every year that line grows. We can’t put on blinders and ignore the growing needs in this city. Under my leadership, we will expand the Karsh Center’s impact, forging deeper partnerships with local organizations and launching new initiatives to address the most pressing needs. I want us to be a congregation where social action is not just something we do—it’s who we are. Intergenerational volunteer programs, advocacy training, and direct service opportunities, will allow us to strengthen the bonds between our congregation and our neighbors, embodying the highest ideals of our Jewish tradition. And our extraordinary partnership with the Annenberg Foundation will enable us to explore new ways to impact our city. Tikkun olam is not separate from our Jewish identity; it is its essence. Together, let's create a model of how a synagogue can not only enrich the lives of its members but also make a lasting impact on its city.
Courage
During their journey through the desert, the Israelites encountered enemies, faced internal conflicts, and experienced deep uncertainty. Nevertheless, they discovered the strength to stand up for what was right, defend their values, and trust in their mission. As Isaiah teaches us, “Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression.” Today, we need that courage more than ever.
Courage is essential. Courage will transform Wilshire Boulevard Temple.
We are one of few synagogues that has managed to maintain a politically and culturally diverse congregation at a time when more and more Jewish communities have become self-selecting in an echo-chamber-like manner. It truly takes courage in today's world to uphold what we have. I am dedicated to ensuring that Wilshire Boulevard Temple remains a model of dialogue, learning, and peaceful coexistence. Courage is often seen as speaking out, but it also takes genuine courage to listen.
Let’s discuss issues that matter to us, analyzing our differences, and uncovering valuable commonalities. I want our community to be one in which we emphasize deep listening, engage in civil discourse, and learn from diverse perspectives. While the outside world may lean into division, I want our community to embrace our diversity.
I want our courage to enable us to approach our synagogue as an incubator, a space for research and development. We will experiment with prayer, learning, the use of our facilities, and the city as a whole to continually evolve and respond to the needs and desires of our congregation. To guide us, let’s look to successful models of entrepreneurship both within and beyond the Jewish community. Through it all, we will always remain true to the core values of our Jewish tradition and the principles that have guided this institution for over 150 years. It will take courage to forge this path together.
Conclusion
What I'm outlining may seem idealistic or far-fetched. Some may say these goals are unattainable and unrealistic. And that's exactly what some said in the desert. Some believed we wouldn't make it, wanting to turn back to Egypt, unable to envision reaching the Promised Land. It took someone with vision and faith to guide them forward. Yet, the desert was not crossed by a single leader, but by a community united in purpose. Together, we too can go anywhere and achieve anything.
When I first walked through these doors as a rabbinical student, I could only dream of standing here today. But like our ancestors in the desert, every step of my journey has led me to this moment. I am filled with profound gratitude for all of you being here today and for the many individuals who have made this milestone in my life—and our congregation’s life—possible.
I have prayed with you in this majestic sanctuary, studied Torah in your homes, celebrated Shabbat in our courtyards, and wrestled with life's biggest questions in quiet hospital rooms. These moments—sometimes joyful, sometimes heartbreaking, but always sacred—have revealed to me the true meaning of a kehillah kedoshah, a sacred and holy community.
Through it all, I have been blessed with an extraordinary mentor, Rabbi Steve Leder. Rabbi Leder has guided this congregation with wisdom, vision, and unwavering dedication. His mentorship has been invaluable, teaching me not only about being a rabbi but also about the unique spirit and character of this remarkable community. His trust in passing the leadership mantle to me is both humbling and inspiring. Steve, your legacy here is profound, and your mentorship has prepared me to carry forward the sacred work to which you have dedicated your life.
As I step into this role, I'm acutely aware that I stand on the shoulders of giants. The visionary rabbis who came before me transformed this congregation from a humble beginning into a cornerstone of Jewish life in Los Angeles. They understood that a synagogue is more than its beautiful buildings---it is the heart and soul of a community striving to bring more light into the world.
To our passionate and dedicated staff, led by our Executive Director, Donna Nadel and lay leadership, led by our President, Deborah Dragon - your tireless commitment ensures that this congregation thrives. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your partnership, guidance, and support. To Erinn Alcabes, our Dir. of Advancement, who planned this entire evening - we are lucky to have you on our team and it means a lot to me personally that you worked so hard to create this magical evening. A special thanks to our clergy team and especially our senior cantor, Lisa Peicott, whom I regard as my clergy partner in moving this community forward. Her creativity and talent are essential to our future successes.
To my friends and family, thank you for all your support and acceptance of this life I've chosen - including the insane schedule and the sometimes last-minute change of plans that seem to always come at an inconvenient moment.
Most importantly, I want to thank my wife, Julia, and our three amazing daughters: Ella, Kayla, and Rebecca. Julia, you are my rock and my best friend, my editor, my reality check, my cheerleader, and my foundation. You serve as this synagogue's first lady and are an inspiring model of leadership in your own right.
To our girls, thank you for embracing this life of ours, for teaching me life's most important lessons, for showering me with your love, and for keeping me humble by reminding me that, at home, I'm just 'Dad'—especially when you roll your eyes at my dad jokes.
As we stand on the threshold of the next chapter in our congregation’s journey, we must remember: we are still in the desert. Every generation finds itself wandering in some way—searching, striving, hoping. But as God reassured Joshua, "Have I not commanded you, be strong and courageous? Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for God is with you wherever you go.” We do not wander alone - God, faith, and purpose always guide us. The strength, resilience, and boldness of this synagogue community invigorates us. We are guided by love and compassion. And we do not wander aimlessly. We have a destination. We have a purpose.
In the spirit of our journey together, I invite each of you to become architects of our shared future. Over the coming months, we will host what I’m calling "Hineini Gatherings" in living rooms and our synagogue spaces across Los Angeles. These gatherings are not just meetings—they are conversations. Bring your hopes, concerns, and boldest dreams for Wilshire Boulevard Temple. Your perspective matters, whether you have been a member for decades or just walked through our doors today. We will provide structured dialogue guides, but the real magic will emerge from your stories, insights, and visions. These gatherings will seek understanding, not unanimous agreement. They are about weaving our individual threads into a stronger, more vibrant communal tapestry. Together, we will not only discuss our future—we will co-create it, hand in hand and voice by voice.
As Moses stood at the edge of the Promised Land, he knew he would not enter it, but he also understood that everything he had done was for the next generation—their future, their safety, and their ability to thrive. Even when the Israelites reached the land that had been promised to them, their journey did not end. The end of one mountain always marks the beginning of another. The destination is never truly an ending; it is a transition to a new beginning. We must keep climbing and we must keep striving. Yes, there will be times when we ask, "Are we there yet?" But together—with Tikvah, the Hope to inspire the next generation, Chazon, the Vision to innovate boldly, Kehillah, the Community to bring comfort and inspiration, and Ometz, the Courage to lead with conviction and bravery—we will reach new heights, together.
Thank you for trusting me to be your rabbi, your teacher, your guide, and most importantly, your partner on this sacred journey. Thank you for dreaming with me. Now, we walk forward together. Each step. Hand in hand. United in purpose, strengthened by tradition, and inspired by the promise of what we will create together.