A Family Rabbi Who Gets It!

If you are looking for a rabbi who has the sensitivity and presence to walk with you and your family as you observe and celebrate events of the Jewish Life Cycle, you are in the right place. Rabbi Robert brings his experience as both a congregational rabbi and therapist to his work. He knows how to relate, to interfaith couples, to same-sex couples, to people!

Please read what one couple had to say about Rabbi Robert and his work:

Thank you for such an amazing day! We got a huge number of complements on the ceremony that you and Father Jeff conducted. [One] would think that designing an interfaith ceremony is a delicate matter, not as much for the bride and groom, but more for the families, who might not be used to such things. The way you designed it, however, made this seem natural and beautiful to everyone. Many of our guests said that this was the most beautiful wedding that they have attended. Josh and Kumari

Rabbi Robert dos Santos Teixeira, M.P.I.A., M.A., M.S.W., L.M.S.W., began his formal study of Judaism under the direction of the late Rabbi Hayim Goren Perelmuter and furthered it by taking courses at the Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies. Upon learning of his Portuguese Jewish roots, study gave way to observance, and after several years of living a Jewish life, he converted.

Throughout this time he worked as an editor and writer of educational materials, authoring the high school textbook Religions in North America. After moving to New Orleans he stepped away from educational publishing and immersed himself in the study of Tarot.

It is estimated that he read some *,*** people. Most of his readings took place outdoors at Jackson Square, in the heart of the French Quarter. "People shared with me every conceivable concern," he says; "at times my readings were brief therapy sessions."

Inspired and fulfilled by the therapeutic dimension of his work as a reader, he went on to become a social worker. At the present time, he provides psychotherapy for those who have HIV.

After being displaced by Hurricane Katrina, he and his partner, Dr. Zafir Buraei, settled in New York City, where he met the New Yorker Rebbe, Grand Rabbi Joseph Gelberman, who invited him to study for the rabbinate. After his ordination, he went on to serve as an intern at the historic Actors Temple, near Times Square, where he currently serves as Assistant Rabbi.

Whatever your pastoral or ceremonial need, Rabbi Robert looks forward to speaking with you and your family.

Stay blessed and be well!