Rabbi Barbara Aiello is a Post-Denominational rabbi serving a Reconstructionist congregation. She is available starting October 1, 2023.

I am a pulpit rabbi with 23 years of congregational experience, currently serving as rabbi of Sinagoga Ner Tamid del Sud in southern Italy. I came to the rabbinate later in life, after a career as a special education teacher, counselor, and a professional puppeteer and creator of the educational program, Kids on the Block. When I made the decision to study for the rabbinate, I found I was the oldest in my class, and my fellow students called me, “Rabbi Mama.”

As a result of my personal journey, I am open and sensitive to those students who have been drawn to Jewish life slowly yet steadily. As the first and only female rabbi in Italy and the first and only other-than-Orthodox rabbi in Italy, I’ve had the pleasure of working with many b’nei anusim (children [of the] forced ones) individuals – those who have discovered and now desire to embrace their Jewish roots formally. I have learned the importance of extending the hand of Jewish welcome to all those who are drawn to Jewish studies and conversion, and I am honored to assist you on your personal, Jewish journey.

Mazel tov (Congratulations) on your desire to immerse yourself in Jewish studies! As a conversion mentor and sponsoring rabbi, I applaud your motivation and initiative, and I welcome you.