Please contact me if you are interested in bringing me to your community for a Scholar in residence book talk. I am available any Shabbat during that time to present talks related to and inspired by my book, Reflections on the Psalms. I have several possible talks or workshops in mind:

1. A d’var Torah length talk describing the method driving my reflections and how you can use that method to derive greater benefit and meaning from prayer.
2. A workshop using selections from the book or Siddur, illustrating the method of intentional, meditative reading and prayer. This is similar to #1, but longer.
3. A program suitable for either Shabbat dinner or Shabbat afternoon lunch entitled, “Birkat Hamazon … more than just gratitude for food!” You’ve just eaten, and are expressing your thanks for joy, nourishment, for covenant, for land, for rest, and for deliverance, among other things. Discover a technique of reflecting on the words of Birkat Hamazon that can illuminate a Divine message directed precisely at you.
4. A guided writing workshop, in which we study a Psalm together, do some writing, and, for those who wish, share a bit of what we’ve written.

I  am offering to do a scholar in residence weekend at a minimal cost, depending on the size of the congregation. From all congregations, I ask that you provide housing within walking distance of the synagogue and, of course, meals. I also ask that you reimburse me for reasonable travel expenses. For congregations under 200 households, I am not asking for an honorarium. Congregations 200 – 500 households, I’m asking for $500; and above 500 households, I ask for a $1000 honorarium. In addition, if possible, I’d like to have a box of 5-10 books sent to you in advance that I will sell on Sunday, if you have an in-person minyan, for a discounted price.

Here are some comments from congregations I have visited:

Rabbi David Krishef brought a new way of deeply connecting to an ancient source. Throughout Shabbat he shared his methodology of deeply examining the book of Psalms as a means of personal growth and exploration. His dedication to the text as the mode of spiritual connection coupled with his calm presence as a teacher was a wonderful summer shabbat experience for our congregation. 

Rabbi Shalom Kantor, Congregation B’nai Moshe, West Bloomfield, MI

Rabbi Krishef’s approach to text study and his teaching style invite participants to experience the beauty and power of Psalms in a way that is deeply personal.

Rabbi Alexander Davis, Beth El Synagogue, St. Louis Park, MN

Thank you for being our teacher on Friday evening and Shabbat morning at Adath. Your passion connecting with others to the world of the Psalms was heartfelt, and your invitation to find just a few words to open up worlds of meaning was important.

Rabbi Aaron Weininger, Adath Jeshurun, Minnetonka, MN

It was a great opportunity for our congregation to host Rabbi Krishef for a Shabbaton. He shared with our community a way to think about worship and how to make prayer a more personal meaningful experience.  Many of our congregants would benefit from his approach.

Rabbi Michael Friedland, South Bend, IN

Rabbi Krishef’s presentations at our shul were inspiring and thought-provoking.  His authentic and meaningful approach to traditional Jewish prayer offers something for everyone, regardless of Hebrew knowledge, observance or facility with davening.  Our congregation absolutely loved learning with him!

Rabbi Rabbi Tamar Magill-Grimm, Mendota Heights, MN

For more information or to schedule a weekend, please contact me at David.Krishef@gmail.com.