Rabbi and Ritual
Discover inclusive Jewish learning through an Asian Jewish lens with Rabbi Mira Rivera and Ritual Director, Rachel Chang!
Meet the Rabbi
Rabbi Mira Rivera (pronouns she/siya/ella) is the first Filipina American to be ordained at The Jewish Theological Seminary with an M.A. in Jewish Studies. Born in Michigan to immigrant parents from the Philippines, she grew up dancing and developed a love for the arts and a discipline for learning. From this world of the arts, Rabbi Rivera brings to the LUNAR Collective a song, movement, and introspection, coupled with her work in social justice.
✓ Ordained Rabbi
✓ Board Certified Chaplain
✓ M.A. in Jewish Studies
Meet the Ritual Director
Rachel Chang (she/her) is a Jewish musician, songleader, educator, and music therapist living in Philadelphia, PA. Rachel leads with expressive guitar, sensitive listening, and a deep intention to cultivate belonging. She is also the director of A Queer Nigun Project @aqueernigunproject, which uses nigunim as a collective healing practice for LGBTQIA+ people, Jews of Color, and incarcerated people in Jewish community.
✓ Songleader
✓ Ritual/Healing Expert
✓ Programming for families with kids
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Chai Chats
Chai Chats is a free program offering inclusive 1:1s with Asian Jewish spiritual leaders to Asian American Jews of all backgrounds. Chai Chats are what you want them to be: learn how to chant Torah, discover Jewish ritual, explore the intersection between your Asian and Jewish identities, or simply enjoy a nice chai and chat about life! This program is currently offered in New York City, Philadelphia, and virtually.
With Rabbi Mira
Book a time to connect with Rabbi Mira! Rabbi Mira welcomes any AAPI individuals on their own Jewish journey (even if that is just considering a Jewish journey!) exploring Asian Jewish Rituals in life moments (B’nai Mitzvah, Wedding, Funeral, etc) or those looking to study Torah. Rabbi Mira also welcomes anyone who seeks pastoral care, and a confidential conversation at this time.
With Rachel
Book a time to connect with Rachel! If you are an elder in an Asian Jewish family or come from an Asian Jewish tribe, Rachel would love to meet you. Rachel also welcomes any individual who would like to connect about ritual, music, and prayer, the intersections of a multitude of identities, and your journey toward a sense of belonging.