Today, we’re shining a spotlight on Rabbi Shlomo Schachter who joins Kehillat Ohr Tzion as their new rabbi after serving as associate Rabbi at Congregation Schara Tzedeck in Vancouver. Rabbi Schachter has deep rabbinic roots as his father, Zalman Schachter-Shalomi z”l, was one of the founders of the Jewish Renewal movement and an innovator in ecumenical dialogue.

Rabbi Shlomo solidified his plans to follow in his father’s footsteps while an undergraduate at Oberlin College. After encountering many Jewish students who were disconnected from their heritage, he felt a responsibility to introduce them to Judaism.

Rabbi Schachter received a degree in Jewish Studies and Christian Theology from Oberlin and completed his rabbinic studies in Israel. Beyond his scholarly achievements, he is skilled in practical aspects of Judaism, such as tying tzitzit and serving as a shochet (a ritual slaughterer), a tradition in his family. His diverse interests also include alternative medicine and football, even having played and coached in Israel.

Rabbi Schachter likens the process of engaging in Jewish life to preparing for a football game—both should be enjoyable and affirming. His dynamic approach has earned him success as both a congregational and campus rabbi. Passionate about Judaism, he aims to share this passion and emotional connection with the Buffalo community.