About

Shalom, my name is Rabbi Miriam Berkowitz. I grew up in Montreal, did A- levels at a boarding school in England, earned a BA in International Relations from Harvard, an MA and Ordination from the Schechter Institute in Jerusalem, and a Doctorate of Theology in Clinical Pastoral Counseling from the University of Theology and Spirituality. I am one of Israel’s first hospital chaplains, accredited in the US and Israel after 1600 hours of pastoral studies and clinical experience, and completed an  intensive tour guide course in 2024.  My rabbinic experience includes work as Assistant Rabbi at the Park Avenue Synagogue in NY and many adult education, scholar in residence and high holiday positions. I wrote the book Taking the Plunge: A Practical and Spiritual Guide to the Mikveh and many articles for journals and websites and am currently completing a second book about peace and Judaism.

 

Returning to Israel in 2008 I founded Kashouvot: Advancing Pastoral Care with Rabbi Valerie Stessin to introduce spiritual care to Israeli healthcare. I worked as a chaplain at the St. Louis French Hospital for five years in English, French, Hebrew and Russian and Italian and  directed Kashouvot until 2019.  I currently live in Jerusalem and plan/organize/lead bnei mitzvah ceremonies and weddings for Israelis and visitors. I am also a licensed Israeli tour guide, creating personalized itineraries for individuals, families and groups. My special interests are bnei mitzvah families, repeat visitors looking for something new, Christian groups, interfaith groups, and introverts. I also teach Torah classes, in person or online. If you are interested in any of these directions, please get in touch today: israelnichetours@gmail.com