Welcoming Shabbat with Yismechu by Rabbi/Cantor Didi Thomas

Today we welcome Shabbat with Yismechu, from the Shabbat afternoon service, sung by Rabbi/Cantor Didi Thomas. A California native, child of an interfaith family, and former professional actress and singer, Rabbi/Cantor Didi draws on her eclectic life experiences to bring a unique presence and musicality to all of her services. 

Known for her warm embracing style, she inspires participants toward a greater sense of unity and connection regardless of their faith or level of observance. Her services uplift the soul and make the heart soar; they are spiritual, multi-dimensional, and universally appealing. Rabbi Thomas is devoted to creating inclusivity and spirituality in all aspects of her rabbinate.  

She is the founding Rabbi for Temple Emet of Torrance, which is a highly participatory community dedicated to creating a sense of family amongst congregants, enhanced worship and learning experiences, as well as a greater connection with the Divine. 

She has served as Cantor for Temple Menorah in Redondo Beach, and as Educator, Music Specialist, or Cantorial Soloist for several large Los Angeles and Texas congregations including Temple Isaiah, Temple Israel of Hollywood, Wilshire Boulevard, Temple Aliyah, Kadima Hebrew Academy, and Temple Emanu-El of Dallas. 

Her daughter, Alissa Thomas-Newborn, ordained at Rabbi Avi Weiss' Yeshiva Maharat in Riverdale, New York, is an American Orthodox Jewish spiritual leader who became the first Orthodox female clergy member to preside in the Los Angeles, California area when she assumed her post as a spiritual leader at B’nai David-Judea Congregation (BDJ) in August 2015. The announcement of her appointment came on May 2, 2015 from the pulpit by the lead clergyman of the synagogue, Rabbi Yosef Kanefsky.

Enjoy, and Shabbat shalom!

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