Meet our Rabbi

Rabbi Andrea Cohen-Kiener is the spiritual leader of Congregation Pnai Or of Central Connecticut and the director of the Interreligious Eco-Justice Network. As a teacher, rabbi and community organizer, Andrea has practiced the art of bringing a spiritual perspective to problem solving for three decades. She has practical skills in communication and dialogue, environmental activism and personal growth. Theatre and musical concerts, educational forums, profound community building, writing and lobbying are among the tools that she has brought to bear in this field.

Andrea was ordained as a rabbi and spiritual guide in 1999 by the Alliance for Jewish Renewal. She has undergraduate degrees in Hebrew Literature and Secondary Education from the University of Minnesota.

Her books include Life on Earth: A User's Guide, A Teen's Guide to Communication Skills and For All Who Call: A Guide to Enhancing Prayer Instruction in the Jewish Community. She is also the translator of Conscious Community, A Guide to Spiritual Development, written in the early years of World War II by Rabbi Kalanymous Kalman Shapira.

Click here for an order form for these books

Other Opportunities to learn with Reb Andrea:

Andrea will be keynoting in Austin TX at the Interfaith Environment Network's kick-off event November 5.

Openings to Peace: Obstacles to Peace, November 9, 7:30 PM in Mansfield CT at the Quaker Meeting.

Three part intro to Jewish Mysticism hosted by Congregation Beth Israel, November 18, December 2 and December 16, 7:00-8:30 PM; contact Beth Israel for details.

Write to Andrea c/o

Check out Andrea's new book!

Claiming Earth as Common Ground: The Ecological Crisis Through the Lens of Faith

Click here for ordering information

Andrea leads services and classes in Winsted CT at Temple Beth Israel

74 Park Place

For a schedule of services, call the Temple

(860) 379-8923