Looking for a rabbi who can make your wedding ceremony unique, heartfelt, and memorable? Rabbi Jonathan Klein is here to create a wedding experience that reflects your love story and Jewish heritage. As the Rabbi of Temple Beth El (Reform) in Bakersfield and serving the city’s Conservative synagogue (Congregation B’nai Jacob), Rabbi Klein is well-versed in both Reform and Conservative traditions, making him the perfect choice for your special day.
Why Choose Rabbi Jonathan Klein?
- Versatile & Inclusive: Rabbi Klein believes in the power of love in all its forms. Whether you prefer a conventional or unconventional ceremony, with or without his guitar, he will tailor the service to your unique preferences. LOVE IS LOVE.
- Musical Touch: A gifted musician, Rabbi Klein can sing beautifully and play guitar, adding a personal and melodic touch to your ceremony. From the Allman Brothers to Frank Zappa, he appreciates a wide range of music, and especially enjoys the music of his daughter, singer-songwriter Kinneret.
- Personal Connection: With the energy of someone in their thirties and the wisdom of someone in their sixties, Rabbi Klein looks forward to getting to know you over lunch or dinner, perhaps at one of the amazing vegan restaurants in LA. He is a 15-year vegan, avid guitar player, and even an amateur stamp collector.
A Wealth of Experience Rabbi Klein has been officiating weddings, funerals, baby-namings, Brit Milah/Brit Banot, B’nai Mitzvah, pet funerals, and conversions for many years, primarily in Los Angeles where he lives. Raised in the San Fernando Valley, he attended UCLA (BA in History in ’92) and was ordained from Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion in New York in 1997, receiving a D.Div. in 2022. He has served as Director of USC Hillel, ran a clergy-centered non-profit committed to economic justice, and directed the Reform Jewish Movement’s college outreach.
Lifelong Support Rabbi Klein is not just your wedding officiant; he is a lifelong resource for your Jewish journey. After officiating your wedding, he will help you find your place in the Jewish community and continue to support you long after your special day.
Celebrate your love with a wedding ceremony that is as unique and special as you are. Rabbi Jonathan Klein is ready to make your dream wedding a reality.
Fun Facts
Favorite Quote: “For a blessing, not for a curse; for plentitude, not for lack; for life, not for death” –A Jewish prayer recited twice a year
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Ben & Jerry’s nondairy Karamel Sutra
Soundtrack to your life: Yes, Siberian Khatru
Favorite Disney Movie: Bambi
Favorite Event Memory: The first wedding I performed as a rabbi; I wish them “Happy 26th Anniversary” this past September!
