From Sin City to Sacred Service: Rabbi Akselrad’s Legacy of Leadership and Light

Key Takeaways: From Desert to Destiny: Rabbi Akselrad reflects on 37+ years building a congregation in Las Vegas—from just 50 families to a vibrant, thriving Jewish community. Joy as a Jewish Imperative: Instead of leading with trauma, Rabbi Akselrad rooted his ministry in joy, pride, and a lived Jewish identity that inspired generations. Knowledge is the Cure: Jewish resilience begins with Jewish knowledge. Books, history, and stories offer the antidote to hate and ignorance. From Sin City to Sacred Space: Las Vegas is more than stereotypes. It’s also a landscape of spiritual growth, risk-taking, and meaningful human connection. Calling Out Hate with Grace: Addressing anti-Semitism requires specificity, strength, and pride—not fear, shame, or overgeneralization. Jewish Magic in the Desert: From officiating David Copperfield’s kids’ b’nai mitzvah to laying Steve and Eydie to rest, Rabbi Akselrad shares stories from his remarkable journey. Legacy in Print: Rabbi Akselrad’s book, Love in the Time of Corona, offers reflections on resilience, love, and leadership during the pandemic. What Joy Really Means: Barry’s acronym for JOY—“Journey of You”—beautifully mirrors Rabbi Akselrad’s own life of purpose, resilience, and giving. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.