Saul Kaye Named Temple Israel of Alameda’s Rabbinic Fellow

ALAMEDA, CA — Temple Israel of Alameda is pleased to announce that Saul Kaye — a rabbinical student, internationally touring musician, and pioneer of the music genre Jewish Blues — will join the congregation as its Rabbinic Fellow for the 2026–2027 academic year, beginning in August 2026.

“I'm thrilled Saul will be joining us this year,” said board member and HR Committee Chair, Judi Stanton. “For years, I have appreciated his music and the way it helps people connect to spirituality. Even people who have never felt drawn to traditional services often find themselves captivated by the music and inspired to participate.”

Kaye is currently studying at the Academy for Jewish Religion and is on track to receive his rabbinical ordination. He holds a BA in Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures from UC Berkeley, studied at Berklee College of Music, and recently completed a two-year certification in leading Jewish meditation. He has led Shabbat and High Holy Day services for more than twenty years.

Alongside his rabbinical studies, Kaye has built a career bridging two worlds. He has released ten albums, produced six more for other artists, and tours over 100 dates a year on four continents. His original genre, Jewish Blues, draws together the sounds of the African American struggle with the history of the Jewish slavery experience — Muddy Waters meets Shlomo Carlebach, as he describes it. He has authored three books and hosts The Holy Sparks Podcast, which features people doing meaningful work in the Jewish world and beyond.

Board President, Kimberlee MacVicar, echoed Judi’s comments, "We are excited to welcome Erev Rav Saul to Temple Israel. His combination of musical artistry, deep Jewish learning, and warmth as a teacher makes him an extraordinary addition to our community. We’re very fortunate, and our members can’t wait!"

Kaye said of the appointment, "I’m grateful to the leadership and congregation of Temple Israel for welcoming me into this sacred work. I hope to meet people where they are, teach Torah that speaks to real life, create meaningful prayer experiences, and help illuminate the holy sparks that already exist within this community."

Kaye's first Shabbat service at Temple Israel will be Friday, August 14, 2026, followed by Shabbat services on Fridays, September 26 and October 9, and then leading the public Menorah Lighting at South Shore on December 9, 2026. His fellowship will also lead adult education sessions, provide pastoral care for members, and conduct B’nei Mitzvot services. Temple Israel is a Reform Congregation and has been the home of Alameda's Jewish community since 1920. The temple is located at 3183 Mecartney Road in the Harbor Bay section of Alameda. For more information, visit www.templeisraelalameda.org. To learn more about Saul's music, visit www.saulkaye.com.

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