I've been a member of Congregation N'Vay Shalom almost since its inception. Rabbi Steve and Cantor Eva Robbins are among the most inspirational individuals I've ever met. At my son's Bar Mitzvah, coming up next month, the service will be based on their knowing my son for his entire lifetime - so different from the "factory" Judaism I experienced as a boy. The personal and spiritual support these two offer goes so far beyond what is typical in the average congregation.
Both Rabbi Stephen Robbins and Cantor Eva Robbins have created a spiritual experience through prayer, meditation and song that has been life changing. Their teachings have deep meaning that resonate with everyone, young and old. That,coupled with the warmth and dedication they give to their congregants makes N'vay Shalom unparalleled.
I have been a member of NVay Shalom for about 6 years and have nothing but great things to say about it. The teaching is absolutely unbelievable. Rabbi Steve Robbins is one of the founders of the AJR and has a wealth of knowledge that is unexcelled in everything from liturgy to theology and from mysticism to application of the Torah to every day life. Cantor Eva is also tremendously knowledgeable and has the most awesome voice and musical ability. The services and meditations are wonderful and transformative. I have never before experienced the level of spiritual power that I experience at their services every week. Finally Rabbi Steve and Cantor Eva are loving people. They open their home and heart to everyone in the congregation. It is a unique experience.
FOR MORE THAN A DECADE, I HAVE EXPERIENCED THE WISDOM, INTELLECTUAL CURIOSITY, AND SPIRITUAL DEPTH OF CANTOR EVA AND RABBI STEVE ROBBINS IN VARIOUS SETTINGS, AS TEACHERS, AS CLERGY AND AS COUNSELORS. THEY ARE REAL GEMS. THEY EMBUE A DEEP WARMTH AND MYSTICAL UNDERCURRENT TO THEIR SERVICES WHICH LINKS THE ANCIENT TO THE PRESENT IN A HOLISTIC FASHION. AS A WIFE AND HUSBAND COMBINATION, THEY OFFER A UNIQUE BLEND OF HUMANISM AND THE MUSIC THEY CREATE IS STIRRING, SOOTHING AND BEAUTIFUL. THEIR CONGREGATION IS INTIMATE AND INCLUSIVE. I WOULD RECOMMEND IT WHOLEHEARTEDLY FOR THOSE OF US WHO HAVE TIRED OF THE BEAUROCRACY OF MEGA-SIZED CONGREGATIONS WITH BIG EDIFICES. EVA AND STEVE ROBBINS HAVE HEALING WAYS ABOUT THEM, AND MAKE EVERY PERSON PRESENT COUNT AS PRECIOUS, AS THEY NAVIGATE THOSE IN THE COMMUNITY THROUGH THE SACRED ASPECTS OF LIFE AND DEATH. THEY LIVE UP TO THEIR NAMESAKE OF N'VAY SHALOM, AND THEY, TOO, ARE CONSTANTLY GROWING.
