Rabbi Barney Kasdan Completes 2nd Term

Rabbi Barney Kasdan, leader of Kehilat Ariel Messianic Synagogue, San Diego, recently completed his second consecutive two-year term as UMJC President. Rabbi Barney served two earlier terms in 1998-2002, making him the longest-serving president of the Union. Here is his farewell note:

Many of you know that on October 1 I completed my second term serving as the UMJC President. As it turns out, this time frame has parallelled a very challenging time in the Jewish world. We were impacted by the October 7 Hamas attack and subsequent three years of war. Likewise, we are burdened by the Russia-Ukraine war that has affected so many in the Jewish community. Add to this an unprecedented rise in global antisemitism and one could be thoroughly distressed. Through all this, however, the Union has remained strong and even seen a noticeable increase in our growth and global impact for Yeshua. I believe the tzuris in the Jewish world has turned out to be an opportunity to shine some messianic light. I want to thank all our family and friends (you!) for your support at this critical time. I greatly appreciate the large, gifted team that makes up our community. It has truly been a blessing for me to serve as your President, and I look forward to continuing in other roles. Kadima! Let us press forward as we abide with Yeshua our Messiah!